{"id":5836,"date":"2023-04-13T09:12:22","date_gmt":"2023-04-13T09:12:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sierrapeds.com\/?p=5836"},"modified":"2023-04-13T09:12:22","modified_gmt":"2023-04-13T09:12:22","slug":"when-can-grandparents-kiss-a-baby","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sierrapeds.com\/when-can-grandparents-kiss-a-baby\/","title":{"rendered":"When Can Grandparents Kiss a Baby?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Grandparents play an essential role in the lives of their grandchildren, and they often can&#8217;t resist giving them a cuddle and a kiss. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">However, in recent years, concerns have arisen about the potential risks of transmitting infections through close physical contact with infants. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">In this article, we will explore when it is safe for grandparents to kiss a baby and its risks and benefits.<\/span><\/p>\n<h1>When Can Grandparents Kiss a Baby?<\/h1>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Grandparents often want to give their grandchildren affection, and kissing is one way to do this. However, with the rise of concerns about infections and diseases, the question arises of when it is safe for grandparents to kiss their grandchildren. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">In this article, we will explore the risks and benefits associated with grandparents kissing babies and provide guidance on when it is safe.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Why are grandparents so keen to kiss babies?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Kissing babies is an age-old tradition that grandparents often love to participate in. They view it as expressing their love and affection for their grandchildren. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Babies also smell good and have soft skin, which makes them irresistible to grandparents. However, kissing a baby comes with some risks that grandparents must be aware of.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What are the risks associated with kissing a baby?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Kissing a baby can pose a risk of transmitting infections and diseases to them. Babies have immature immune systems, making them more susceptible to illnesses than adults. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">They also have smaller airways, making breathing difficult for them to breathe if they get sick.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Some of the infections and diseases that can be transmitted through kissing include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Herpes simplex virus (cold sores)<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Influenza (flu)<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Hand, foot, and mouth disease<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Meningitis<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">When is it safe for grandparents to kiss a baby?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">The safest time for grandparents to kiss a baby is when the baby is fully vaccinated and has a robust immune system. This usually happens when the baby is around two months old. Before this time, grandparents should avoid kissing the baby on the mouth and face.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What precautions should grandparents take before kissing a baby?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Grandparents should always wash their hands before holding or touching a baby. They should also avoid kissing the baby on the mouth and face until it is at least two months old. If grandparents have a cold sore, they should avoid kissing the baby altogether.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Are there any benefits to kissing a baby?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Kissing a baby can have some benefits, such as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">It can release oxytocin, known as the &#8220;love hormone,&#8221; and help grandparents bond with their grandchildren.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">It can help build the baby&#8217;s immune system by exposing them to harmless bacteria that can help them resist harmful bacteria.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What alternatives are there to kissing a baby?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">If grandparents are not comfortable with kissing a baby, there are other ways they can show affection, such as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Cuddling<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Singing to the baby<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Reading to the baby<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Playing with the baby<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Making eye<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">How can grandparents bond with their grandchildren without kissing them?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Grandparents can bond with their grandchildren in many ways, such as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"><strong>Spending time with them:<\/strong> Grandparents can spend quality time with their grandchildren by taking them on outings, playing games, or simply conversing with them.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"><strong>Sharing stories:<\/strong> Grandparents can share stories about their own lives or family history with their grandchildren, which can help to create a special bond between them.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"><strong>Showing<\/strong> <strong>an interest<\/strong>: Grandparents can show an interest in their grandchildren&#8217;s lives by asking about their hobbies, interests, and school activities. This can help to build a strong relationship between them.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What can parents do to ensure their baby stays healthy?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Parents can take several steps to ensure their baby stays healthy, such as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"><strong>Vaccinating their baby:<\/strong> Vaccinations are an important way to protect babies from serious illnesses.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"><strong>Washing their hands:<\/strong> Parents should wash their hands frequently, especially before touching their baby or handling their baby&#8217;s food or bottles.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"><strong>Avoiding sick people:<\/strong> Parents should avoid taking their baby around people who are sick, especially during the first few months of life when the baby&#8217;s immune system is still developing.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"><strong>Keeping the baby away from smoke:<\/strong> Smoke can irritate their lungs and increase their risk of respiratory infections. Parents should keep their babies away from smokers and smoking areas.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What should grandparents do if they have a cold sore?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">If grandparents have a cold sore, they should avoid kissing the baby until it has healed completely. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">The herpes simplex virus causes cold sores and can be transmitted to babies at risk of developing serious complications if they contract the virus.<\/span><\/p>\n<table class=\"wp-list-table widefat fixed striped table-view-list posts\">\n<tbody id=\"the-list\">\n<tr id=\"post-5833\" class=\"iedit author-self level-0 post-5833 type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-parenting-advice tag-how-far-behind-in-child-support-before-a-warrant-is-issued\">\n<th class=\"check-column\" scope=\"row\">READ ALSO:<\/th>\n<td class=\"title column-title has-row-actions column-primary page-title\" data-colname=\"Title\"><strong><a class=\"row-title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sierrapeds.com\/why-do-third-world-countries-keep-having-babies\/\" aria-label=\"\u201cHow Far Behind in Child Support Before a Warrant is Issued?\u201d (Edit)\">How Far Behind in Child Support Before a Warrant is Issued?<\/a><\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Can grandparents transmit COVID-19 to babies?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Grandparents can transmit COVID-19 to babies if they are infected with the virus. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Therefore, grandparents should follow all recommended precautions, such as wearing a mask, washing their hands frequently, and avoiding close contact with the baby if sick.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">What should grandparents do if they feel unwell?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">If grandparents feel unwell, they should avoid visiting the baby until they have recovered. This includes avoiding contact with the baby through virtual means, such as video calls, to reduce the risk of transmitting illnesses.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Should grandparents be allowed to kiss newborns?<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Whether grandparents should be allowed to kiss newborns is complex, with no clear-cut answer. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">While kissing a newborn is a way for grandparents to express their love and affection, it is also essential to consider the potential health risks.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Newborns are particularly vulnerable to infections, and their immune systems are not yet fully developed. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Kissing a newborn on the lips or face can introduce harmful bacteria or viruses that can lead to severe illnesses. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">For example, cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus and can be transmitted to a newborn through kissing. In rare cases, this can lead to a severe illness known as neonatal herpes, which can cause brain damage or even death.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">However, this does not mean that grandparents should not be allowed to show affection to their newborn grandchildren. There are many ways that grandparents can bond with their newborn grandchildren without physical contact. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">They can spend time with them, share stories, and show an interest in their lives. They can also support the parents by helping with household tasks or offering emotional support.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Ultimately, the decision of whether to allow grandparents to kiss a newborn should be made by the parents. They should be aware of the potential risks and take appropriate precautions to protect their baby&#8217;s health. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">This may include asking grandparents to wash their hands before holding the baby, avoiding close physical contact if sick, or avoiding kissing the baby on the face or lips.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">In conclusion, while kissing a newborn is a way for grandparents to show their love and affection, it is essential to consider the potential health risks. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Parents should make an informed decision about allowing grandparents to kiss their newborn and take appropriate precautions to protect their baby&#8217;s health.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Are parents allowed to kiss newborns?<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Parents are typically allowed to kiss their newborns, but it is essential to take certain precautions to ensure the baby&#8217;s health and safety.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">As with grandparents or other family members, kissing a newborn can transmit harmful bacteria or viruses that can cause illnesses. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Parents should wash their hands before holding or feeding the baby, avoid close contact if sick, and avoid kissing the baby on the face or lips.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">It is also essential to consider the baby&#8217;s immune system, which has yet to develop fully. Newborns are particularly vulnerable to infections and illnesses and must care extra to protect their health.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">That being said, physical contact and affection are essential for bonding between parents and their newborns. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Holding and cuddling a baby can promote security, comfort, and love. Kissing on areas such as the top of the head or hands can also be a way to show affection without introducing harmful bacteria or viruses.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Parents are allowed to kiss their newborns, but it is essential to take precautions to protect the baby&#8217;s health and well-being. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">It is important to follow guidelines from healthcare professionals and take steps to prevent transmitting harmful bacteria or viruses.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">FAQs<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<h3><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Is it safe for grandparents to kiss a baby on the forehead?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Yes, it is generally safe for grandparents to kiss a baby on the forehead, as long as they have washed their hands and do not have a cold sore.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Can a baby get sick from being kissed on the cheek?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">A baby can get sick from being kissed on the cheek if the person kissing them has an infection or disease that can be transmitted through close physical contact.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">At what age do babies start to develop a robust immune system?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Babies develop a robust immune system at around two months of age.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Can babies get cold sores?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Yes, babies can get cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">How can grandparents show affection to a baby without physical contact?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Grandparents can show affection to a baby by spending time with them, sharing stories, showing an interest in their lives, and engaging in other activities that do not involve physical contact.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Conclusion<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Grandparents play an essential role in the lives of their grandchildren, and kissing is one way they express their affection. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">However, grandparents need to be aware of the risks associated with kissing a baby and take precautions to protect the baby&#8217;s health. <\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Grandparents play an essential role in the lives of their grandchildren, and they often can&#8217;t resist giving them a cuddle and a kiss. However, in recent years, concerns have arisen about the potential risks of transmitting infections through close physical contact with infants. In this article, we will explore when it is safe for grandparents [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":5837,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[46],"tags":[62],"class_list":["post-5836","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-parenting-advice","tag-when-can-grandparents-kiss-a-baby"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sierrapeds.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5836","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sierrapeds.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sierrapeds.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sierrapeds.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sierrapeds.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5836"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.sierrapeds.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5836\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sierrapeds.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5837"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sierrapeds.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5836"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sierrapeds.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5836"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sierrapeds.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5836"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}