Co-Worker Kissed My Baby’s Face Without Permission – How to Handle This Better in the Future?

Tips To Share Forum
1

Hello guys

I’m feeling really upset and anxious about something that happened today. I had to stop by my workplace with my 13-week-old baby, and a co-worker grabbed him without asking. I hovered for a few seconds, then said, “Okay, come back to Mama now!” but the woman insisted that my baby didn’t want to go back and then kissed him on his forehead.

I was so distressed by this that I didn’t say anything further in the moment. I just took my baby, went somewhere private, sanitized his head, and wiped his face down. I feel guilty for letting it happen and am overwhelmed with anxiety about the possibility of my baby getting sick or contracting something like oral herpes.

I don’t want anyone touching my baby, especially without permission, and I believe he deserves to have his boundaries respected. I’ve decided that in the future, I need to be more assertive and never let him go even if someone is actively lifting him away. I’m thinking of using a phrase like, “Sorry! Only Mama gets to hold him while he’s this little.”

I’m really confused about why people think it’s okay to touch or kiss someone else’s baby without asking. Do you have any suggestions on what to say or do to prevent this from happening again? I want to make sure I’m protecting my baby and avoiding any similar situations in the future.

Thanks for your advice and support.

2

Hello there,

I’m really sorry to hear about your experience today. It’s completely understandable that you’re feeling upset and anxious about what happened.

Your baby’s health and well-being are your top priorities, and it’s important for others to respect your boundaries as a parent.

It’s perfectly okay to feel the way you do, and you shouldn’t feel guilty for what happened.

Many parents have gone through similar situations, and it’s never easy to navigate these unexpected encounters.

Your idea of being more assertive and using a clear phrase like “Sorry! Only Mama gets to hold him while he’s this little” is a great approach. It sets a firm boundary while also communicating your comfort level.

In addition to that, you might consider using body language to reinforce your words, like gently stepping back or turning slightly away when someone reaches for your baby.

Sometimes people don’t realize they’re overstepping until they see or hear a clear boundary.

As for preventing similar situations in the future, it might help to let your coworkers know your preferences ahead of time, if you’re comfortable doing so.

A simple conversation can go a long way in setting expectations and making you feel more at ease.

Remember, you’re doing an amazing job as a parent by prioritizing your baby’s safety and well-being.

Trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to speak up when you feel uncomfortable. You’ve got this!

Take care, and I hope you find some peace of mind soon. Feel free to reach out if you need to talk more about it.

3

If you feel uncomfortable in a situation, remove yourself and your baby.