Some cultures have special prayers that are said immediately after birth. Others believe in specific sentiments that should be said or heard. Regardless of where you fall on the spectrum, your words are sure to reflect the love you have for your new baby.
25 Common First Words
When we asked moms and dads what they said to their baby when they saw them for the first time, we got a wide variety of responses. Here are just a few of the many things parents might say to their baby at birth.
Prayers
When a baby is born, most moms and dads often end up saying whatever is on their heart or in their mind at that moment. After all, birth can be an incredibly moving experience, no matter whether your baby joins your family through a vaginal birth, c-section, or even through an adoption. So, trying to say something scripted can be a challenge. Some religions have special prayers that are meant to be whispered in the baby’s ear at the moment of birth. For instance, Muslims believe that the first words that a baby hears should be the Adhan, or the call to prayer. These words are usually whispered in the newborn’s right ear. Meanwhile, other religions such as Christianity may not have specific prayers that are recited, but instead focus on blessing the new baby with impromptu prayers of thanksgiving. Likewise, some Catholic families will pray a blessing on the mother and baby after the birthing process, and usually hold a baptism shortly after birth. Even if you don’t belong to a particular faith group or you are not religious at all, you may still find that you want to say a blessing over your newborn. You can be spontaneous and say what is on your heart at the time. Or, you can have something prepared ahead of time. The choice is yours.
Traditions
Some families have traditions that they follow after the birth of a child. For instance, Jewish families hold a naming ceremony around the eighth day after a baby is born. This timeframe also is when a male baby undergoes a circumcision. Meanwhile, Hindu babies will be dressed in new clothes between the 10th and 12th day after birth for their naming ceremony. This celebration often includes a feast, songs, and sometimes a fire sacrifice. Even some doctors or midwives have traditions. For instance, they may recite special wishes for your baby as you push. Some particularly inspired practitioners even sing “Happy Birthday” to every baby at birth. Also, think about the details of your new tradition. For instance, will you have the same song for every baby? Or will you choose a new song with every birth? Perhaps you will choose whatever moves you at that moment or relates specifically to your new baby. Get creative and have a little fun with it.
A Word From Verywell
Starting a tradition or saying a prayer is not something that’s required of you. In fact, many moms and dads don’t have anything planned. They simply figure it out as the moment unfolds. Rest assured, you will know what to say to your little one when they arrive. After all, sometimes the simplest statements mean the most.
