Not to want other peoples young children to hold my newborn

[KatyS36]

A number of our friends and family now have children in the 3 to 8 age range.

I remember visiting them when they had their first baby. If I was offered a chance to hold or cuddle the baby that was lovely, but I never assumed it and always understood and respected if they didn't make this offer.

Several of these people, have now commented along the lines of 'their child loves babies' or 'their child has had lots of practise holding their siblings. I had one child at the weekend say 'next time I see you you'll have a baby for me to play with' and noone said anything.

AIBU not to want other peoples children to hold my newborn? I don't want to be treated as if I'm being paranoid or unreasonable, but at the same time considering what they were like with their first children it doesn't seem like an unreasonable view.

Thoughts please!

Aww Katy it'll be fine and you've had some really good advice here. Older children are just as reverent as has been described, they instinctively sense that they are being handed something very precious and it is very moving to see them gaze down at a newborn's face. Tinofspam described it pretty accurately I'd say - and certainly they will be expected to wash their hands and be propped up with cushions etc.

I remember visiting my brother to see his PFB with my two who were then aged 8 and 6 - he began to explain (quite well!) about the importance of supporting the baby's head, but stopped as I positioned the 6yo on the sofa and rested the baby on him - no supporting to be done. My boys remember that trip very clearly and it was definitely the start of their bond with that baby-now-toddler.

You'll be fine and so will your baby. It's natural that you feel insecure but trust your family - noone wants to risk hurting your baby for a secpnd.