- Naming ceremonies
- Sweets shared with all
- Kept in every culture
Where it began
Every culture has ways to welcome a newborn. In Hindu tradition, the Namakarana naming ceremony is often held on the eleventh or twelfth day, and a cradle ceremony may follow.
In Islam, the call to prayer is softly spoken in the baby's ear, and the Aqiqah, often on the seventh day, includes a meal shared with the poor. Christian families welcome the baby with baptism, and Jewish families hold naming and blessing rites.
In China, a full month celebration, called manyue, is held when the baby is one month old, and red eggs are shared with friends.
How it grew over time
Ancient times
Families welcome newborns with prayers, offerings and feasts.
Traditional rites
Naming ceremonies, blessings and cradle rites take shape in many faiths.
19th century
Families begin to send printed birth announcements.
Today
News of a baby is shared with photos, sweets and many messages.
How it is celebrated in different places
Tamil Nadu
The baby is placed in a decorated cradle and named, with songs and family blessings.
North India
Families share laddoos, and relatives visit with gifts for mother and baby.
China
At one month, families share red eggs and ginger at a manyue feast.
Europe and the Americas
Friends bring meals, gifts and cards, and many families hold a christening.
New Baby moments
New Baby today
Today the first weeks are a time of rest and care. Friends and family send wishes, bring food and offer help, and the new parents share their joy.
