While every baby needs his mother, Velcro babies must be always in somebody’s arms. Let’s go over the stuff you didn’t know about Velcro babies.

As a mother I cannot bear the sight of my babies crying. As soon as my baby boys start to cry, I try to console them. But taking care of a baby boy who wants to be held all the time, cries when you put them down, and finds comfort with skin-to-skin contact is a different story.

You will be surprised to know there are babies who would never leave your side and sight. Yes, they are fed, changed, burped and are not sick but still won’t stop crying as soon as you put them down. After trying anything and everything, their sobbing still doesn’t end. Well, meet the Velcro baby.

As the name suggests, Velcro babies cling to you like a Velcro. Velcro babies love to be held at all times and as soon as they are put down, they will burst into tears. They are happy only when they are in their mother’s arms. I know it can be very tiring. Here are some interesting facts and tips for you to navigate your motherhood with your clingy baby.

Surprising Facts about Velcro Babies

Besides taking care of the baby, mothers have hundreds of things to do especially if you are a stay-at-home mom. Handling a Velcro baby may seem like an impossible task but don’t worry, you can learn ways to manage a not-so-happy-when-put-down baby. Check out these surprising facts about Velcro babies.

Most people like to have Velcro babies

Although most mothers find it difficult to keep up with the needs of a Velcro baby, some really love it! It makes more sense for parents who like to be around babies even when they didn’t have their own babies. Think of it this way, your child will grow up as an independent individual sooner than you expect and you will miss those cuddles and snuggles.

Velcro babies are not spoiled babies

Pampering your children isn’t a crime. Many parents have been accused of pampering their children by people around them. They would call you names if they see you carrying your baby around all the time. However, Velcro babies are not spoiled and pampered babies. They want to stay close to their parents and need comforting. It would not affect their personality as Velcro children would still grow up as independent, non-Velcro kids.

Velcro babies are more active in the womb

Studies show that Velcro babies are livelier and more active in the womb. But feeling more kicks and turns than usual, doesn’t automatically indicate that you’re going to have a clingy baby. Having Velcro babies means they vulnerable and sensitive to stimulus just like how they react inside the womb.

They know who is picking them

It’s true! Most children at the age of three months can recognize familiar and new faces. They immediately know who is holding them and respond accordingly. You might notice that your baby’s attitude and mood change when held by someone else. Although some Velcro infants are still happy with everyone at this age, they choose no one but you to carry them around.

They need physical comfort

People may think that Velcro babies need care and comfort 24 hours a day. However, it isn’t true in most cases. They just seek physical contact from time to time. Imagine being held closely for 9 months inside the womb and then experience an entirely different world! Velcro babies need the warmth and security they have been familiar with for a long time.

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Tips to Navigate Motherhood with Velcro Babies

Velcro babies need special attention and care, otherwise, they can become stubborn. Here are some tips to manage Velcro babies and enjoy the time when your baby needs to be comforted.

Go out and have fun together

Whether you are a working mom or a SAHM, you can make your baby a part of your social life. Instead of denying yourself family gatherings and get-togethers, take your baby along while practicing precautions. While you socialize with your folks, your kid will learn to socialize with humans around him. After all, the presence of a baby in any gathering makes the atmosphere bubbly and joyful. 

Sometimes, let your baby cry

I understand the frustration of seeing your little one cry, but you must learn to ignore it sometimes. Babies weep a lot and if you have a Velcro baby you must be ready for non-stop wailing and crying sessions. I recommend letting them cry for some time. Your child’s going to live. In truth, aside from the benefits of breathing exercise, babies feel calm and relaxed after crying. 

Get a baby carrier

Whether you are washing dishes, making meals or doing laundry, your Velcro baby wants to cling next to you. Buy an ergonomic baby carrier to free your hands from carrying your baby around. Trust me on this, it would make your boy mom life easier if you can move your hands around. Think of it as exercise: as carrying your baby will engage more muscles of your body. Your biceps, shoulders and back muscles will feel the strain when you hold a baby.

Get your baby acquainted with people around them

There is no need for you to be present every time your Velcro baby starts crying. You may start by making them more comfortable with someone like a trustworthy babysitter, spouse or a close family member. Getting them acquainted with grandparents will help you plan trips where you cannot take your baby along. Once you’ve returned, always talk to your child to ensure you’re back and he is not alone. Mothers who must return to work following their maternity leave may try to separate for a shorter period before they depart full time. These procedures will be particularly beneficial if you plan to send your child to the daycare center.

Give them a massage

Massage works wonders for fussy babies. Many newborns like skin-to-skin contact. Studies have also shown that children who get a massage appear to weep less and sleep better. Simply remove the clothes of your child and massage their legs, hands, shoulders, chest and face with gentle strokes. Before applying any oils or lotions to your infant, please check with your doctor.

Rub the stomach in the clockwise direction and bicycle their tiny legs to alleviate some pressure.

Hang on, it too shall pass

I remember my second born, it was a tough time first few months for me as a mom. As a baby, he didn’t want to put down even for a minute. Putting him to sleep was a challenge. Swaddle, rocker and swings didn’t do any magic. My arms were his only nesting place. When changing him, I should stay close because once I was out of his sight, he will surely cry. He recognized nobody but me.

But now that he’s 3, he grew up to be an awesome, sweet and friendly boy. I can leave him in the nursery without a tear. He is actually excited about having fun and playing in it. I can leave him with his dad or a babysitter with kiss and goodbyes.

Velcro stage will pass. As of now enjoy, (or endure) his clinginess.

Summary

Every child is different. Some need more physical contact than others. Separation anxiety is common to babies. The least we can do as a mom to ease their tension is help them feel safe and relaxed when they cry.