The First Moments of Your Baby's Life- Newborn Crawl and Golden Hour

So, let’s talk about what this golden hour is. For starters this golden hour is not just a quick, fast paced moment; it can last up to two hours after birth, where the newborn is exceptionally alert and ready to bond. This period is super crucial for both the baby and the parents. It’s all about skin-to-skin contact, which has a ton of benefits. It's like nature's own thermostat and pacemaker, as it helps regulate the baby’s temperature and keeps their little heart beating steadily. Plus, it also calms their breathing and is a key player in establishing that deep emotional bond between the baby and the parents. The baby is more receptive to touch, sounds, and smells, which is why it’s so good to bond with your baby during this time. When a newborn is placed skin-to-skin on their parent's chest, it's not just a warm and cozy cuddle or hug, it's a whole bunch of health perks kicking in. On top of that, this contact boosts the release of oxytocin, known as the love hormone, in both the baby and the parents. This hormone surge helps with emotional bonding, reduces stress, and can make breastfeeding easier. It's like nature's way of saying, "Hey, let's get this parent-baby team off to a strong start!"

Now, let's talk about the newborn crawl. It's this innate behavior that babies are born with, where they start their mini journey towards the breast for their first meal. It's not just about hunger; it’s about instinct and the incredible connection to their mom. They use their senses, especially their sense of smell, to find the breast. It's like they're little explorers on a mission, using their head, arms, and legs to navigate this new world outside the womb. Something so cool is that the scent of amniotic fluid and colostrum, that superfood first milk, is like a homing beacon for them. The way that God designed birth is so cool, but even everything after birth blows my mind. What's really interesting and unique is that the breast crawl is part of the baby’s hardwired survival skills. It's not just for breastfeeding; it's a sign for the baby seeking comfort and connection. This instinctual behavior is one of nature's most remarkable phenomena, showcasing the baby's built-in abilities to seek out the nourishment and closeness they need from their mother right from the start. It's a powerful reminder of the intricate biological bond between a mother and her child, and witnessing it is like watching a silent symphony of nature at its finest. It is a beautiful scene to witness and see.

The newborn crawl and golden hour are moments that you won’t be able to get back with that child. The benefits of those times aren’t just good for the baby, but also mom and dad as you just read. Therefore, if you are questioning whether or not you should do it I would 100% recommend it. The bond, healing, and helping it brings to you and your baby are just way too good to pass up on. It is so incredible how these early moments lay down the foundation for a baby’s development and the parent-child relationship! It’s a truly magical and transformative experience that goes beyond just feeding— it’s about beginning a lifelong bond.