Newborn always cries when Dad holds him

[CasDk]

Did anyone else have this problem? My husband is so hands on and loving, but my 10 week old just wants me to cuddle him. He always cries after a minute or two when his dad holds him, and as soon as I take him he is calm. I feel awful for my husband and know he feels frustrated and helpless. My son is happy to be held by strangers etc, but struggles at home with daddy cuddles. He is EBF so that might have something to do with it?

Perhaps he can smell you? What if you went out for an hour and left baby with your husband?

Totally normal. Both my DS were the same with my DH. He'll get loads of cuddles and attention when they are older. Babies tend to only want mum, especially if your breastfeeding. My 10 month old still will always choose me over my DH if we are both in the room.

Yes, it’s normal. Your smell is the best thing in the world to them and nothing quite compares. They cry to communicate what they want most, which is you. Lots of one on one time and babywearing helps, but my 10 month old is the same when he’s tired or upset. It’s a survival mechanism and also means they are well bonded to you, which is a good thing if you are the primary caregiver. It does get easier as they get older though.