how important is socializing a newborn baby during a pandemic?

Most people won't socialize or 'bring baby out' until they get their shots. During a pandemic, that period lasts a lot longer. Can this be detrimental for baby?

Socialization at this age is mainly with their parents and sometimes grandparents. Babies are studying facial expressions, tone of voice, and around 3 months they are recognizing people and voices in their lives, but don't feel like you need to expose baby to other people and children physically right away. 

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what can i do to help baby socialize under lockdown?

Under lockdown, what we have done is use video chatting a lot. Baby is fascinated by people's faces and this has been no different. It has been a great way to keep in contact with grandparents and friends safely. Baby gets the benefit of seeing people, but without the worry. 

• Play with baby!​
  
  • What this looks like: I pretend to eat baby's foot and hands, we play peek a boo, 
• Respond to babies cues
  • This helps to develop trust, which imperative for emotional health and development. If they cry, pick them up... if they smile, smile back... if they babble, talk back! We make up stories about what baby might be saying and respond with comments (i.e. "oh wow! that sounds like some dream you had!" "You took a bath today? That's so nice!" 
• Make eye contact
  • During bath time, changing diapers and clothes and playing are a good time for this
• Go out for a walk
  • Talk about things you see on your walk and narrate to baby what is happening at your eye level
• Give baby love and hugs!
  • This helps develop trust and makes baby feel safe, loved, and comforted. These are important social aspects and babies should be comfortable with touch and companionship. 

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red flags

Make sure babies and meeting their milestones, basically the opposite of the red flags! If they are not, you should reach out to your county's Early Intervention program for an evaluation. 

3-6 months:

• Baby does not respond to name, smiles, or social play
• Difficulty with eye contact
• Difficulty following objects
• Limited imitation of sounds 

7-8 months:

• Does not show recognition or affection for caregivers
• Doesn't laugh

9-12 months: 

• Delayed response to name
• No or limited babbling or meaningful gestures (i.e. pointing)
• Aversion to touch
• No approximations of single words 
• Does not show interest in social games