Becoming Parents When You’ve Never Even Held a Baby

One of the quiet truths about modern parenthood is this: many couples enter pregnancy without ever having held a baby before. 👶

It can feel almost taboo to admit it. As though the basics of feeding, soothing, or even changing a nappy should be instinctively “known.” But the reality is… they’re not.

In the past, families were larger, neighbours were closer, and caring for babies was something we witnessed daily. You’d see your siblings, cousins, or neighbours with newborns — you’d pass the baby around, learn through watching, and gain confidence before it was ever “your turn.”

But today? Families are smaller, we often live far apart, and communities aren’t woven together in the same way. Many parents-to-be reach pregnancy without those early experiences, which can make the idea of caring for a newborn feel overwhelming.

And yet, the beauty of this shift is that there’s no “default parent” anymore. More and more dads and partners are stepping into the primary caregiving role — changing nappies, babywearing, doing night feeds, and being just as hands-on as mums. Parenthood is no longer scripted; it’s shared, adaptable, and deeply individual.

So if you’re stepping into this journey having never held a baby before — you’re not behind. You’re exactly where so many new parents begin. What matters most isn’t experience — it’s openness, patience, and the willingness to learn together. 🌿

If you feel nervous about the unknown — you’re not alone. My antenatal course (online or in person) is here to give you the practical tools, emotional support, and reassurance you need as you step into parenthood together.

🌿 You don’t need to know it all. You just need a safe space to learn and grow.

Lizzie x