Can you spoil a brand new baby? I really don't know but I never want to find out, so I think it's important not to hold a baby 24-7. Let's face it, if we are willing to read blogs about children, our children are not going to be neglected. At the same time, many parents are saying how hard it is to have a new born. New born babies sleep 16-17 hours in a 24 hour period, 2 hours or more at a time. My suggestion to new Moms is to nap when the baby does, especially in the first few weeks while recovering from childbirth. After that, nap time is for making the house a place a husband wants to come home to, as well as a couple break times for naps, Bible reading, and relaxation for Mom.
Beyond feeding, burping, and changing babies, they need time to grow, play, and watch you take care of all God has graciously given you, this will bless your husband too, God gave you him first :-). "But" you say, "what if I'm doing the dishes and the baby cries?" finish your dishes, if the baby is in ear-shot, talk to them soothingly and encourage them that you will be with them soon. Babies are pretty tough and even if they can't hear you, they will be okay for 10 minutes or so. You are instilling trust and security in your baby, and giving them the opportunity to develop their own comforting skills and maybe exercise their lungs a little.
I'm not saying I never hold, played with, or talked to babies unless they have a need, no one who loves babies has to be told to interact with them. We want to, but, it is dangerous for the baby to control our lives. God gives us this great blessing of bringing up children to be pleasing to Him. If we teach them patience early on, they will continue to develop it throughout their lives.
I have so much more to say, but that is enough for now. Next time I will talk more how babies communicate. God has equipped us to teach our babies so many wonderful things from the very beginning, as well as take care of other responsibilities He has given us.
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