A young couple has been branded 'a bit OTT' for introducing strict rules following the birth of their child. The new parents asked family and friends not to visit for the first four weeks of the baby's life. Although they are now inviting people to meet the newborn, they have requested that no one touches him until he is at least 12 weeks old.
One relative said that while she would respect their wishes, she had 'never seen this level of protection before'. Taking to Mumsnet to see if others thought it was 'a bit extreme', she explained: 'Some relatives recently had a baby. They are quite a young couple in mid 20s and have set a rule that no one is allowed to hold or touch baby until he's at least 12-weeks-old, not even grandparents. Before four weeks no one could visit. Now visits are permitted but only to look at baby, no touching.'
'For background baby is healthy, born full term so no issues like that. Am I being unreasonable to think this is a bit OTT and precious? Obviously it shouldn't be pass the parcel with a newborn, no kisses, wash hands, stay away if sick etc but I've never seen this level of protection before. Obviously it's their baby, their rules and I'm not going to break them. I'll visit in a few weeks and keep my distance. Is this a Gen Z thing? Or are they a bit extreme? I was never this way with my child, nor were any friends and relatives in my age group. We'd usually visit a week or two after and hold baby after washing hands.'
Several people responded to say they thought it was 'ridiculous'. One said: 'If they want to live in a little bubble, leave them to it. In a few years time, they'll probably be complaining that their relatives don't help out and haven't developed a bond with their child!' A second forum user chipped in: 'I'm old, I thought it was lovely if people wanted to hold my newborn. People used common sense. I don't understand how some people get through life if they are so anxious about a friend or relative cuddling a baby.'
A third wrote: 'Their baby, their rules.' A fourth added: 'Don't worry by the time they have another one they will have forgotten these rules and will be giving the baby to anyone that will hold it.' Another questioned: 'Why do you feel such a strong need to touch their baby as a newborn? It's only a few weeks.'
