Skin-to-skin, past the newborn phase

Skin-to-skin isn't just a delivery-room ritual. It regulates temperature, heart rate, breathing, and blood sugar for weeks and months, not just the first hour. Babies dropped into a bare-chest cuddle often settle within minutes when nothing else works. It's especially useful during illness, fussy evenings, or right before a nap. The physical closeness also boosts oxytocin in both parents, which lowers stress hormones and can help with postpartum mood. Ten minutes a day is plenty to feel the difference. Combine it with a warm blanket over your baby's back so they don't lose heat, and lean back rather than sit fully upright — the semi-reclined position is what supports their tiny neck.