Common Parenting Myths in India: What Every Parent Should Know

Common Parenting Myths in India: What Every Parent Should Know

Parenting in India is filled with love, traditions, and advice passed down through generations. While much of this wisdom comes from experience, certain myths can cause confusion or unnecessary worry for new parents.

To help you make informed decisions, here’s a clear breakdown of the most common parenting myths in India — and the truth behind them.


Common Parenting Myths & The Truth

Myth 1: “Holding a newborn too much will spoil them.”

✔ Truth:

  • You cannot spoil a newborn.

  • Babies need physical closeness for emotional bonding, brain development, and security.

  • Cuddling builds trust — not bad habits.


Myth 2: “Infants under 6 months need water.”

✔ Truth:

  • Breastmilk or formula provides all the hydration a baby needs.

  • Giving water too early can:

    • Dilute nutrients

    • Increase infection risk

    • Cause water intoxication

  • No water before 6 months — as per pediatric guidelines.


Myth 3: “Teething causes fever and diarrhea.”

✔ Truth:

  • Teething may cause mild discomfort, drooling, or irritability — but not fever or diarrhea.

  • These symptoms indicate an infection, not teething.


Myth 4: “Walkers help babies walk faster.”

✔ Truth:

  • Walkers do not help walking — they can delay natural development and are unsafe.

  • Babies walk when their muscles naturally strengthen.


Myth 5: “Babies must sleep in complete silence.”

✔ Truth:

  • Babies are used to constant womb sounds.

  • Soft background noise or white noise often helps them sleep better — complete silence is not essential.


Myth 6: “Shaving the baby’s head makes hair grow thicker.”

✔ Truth:

  • Hair texture is determined by genetics, not shaving.

  • Shaving may give an illusion of thicker growth, but it does not change actual hair quality.


Myth 7: “Boys should not cry.”

✔ Truth:

  • Crying is a healthy emotional expression for all children.

  • Teaching boys to suppress emotions can lead to long-term emotional challenges.


Myth 8: “Formula-fed babies are weaker than breastfed babies.”

✔ Truth:

  • Formula is designed to support healthy growth.

  • Whether breastfed or formula-fed, babies can grow strong and healthy with proper nutrition and care.


Myth 9: “Newborns must always wear caps and socks.”

✔ Truth:

  • Overheating is harmful.

  • Dress babies based on room temperature — usually one extra layer than an adult is enough.


Myth 10: “Starting solids early helps babies sleep better.”

✔ Truth:

  • Introducing solids before 6 months can cause digestive issues and allergies.

  • Sleep improves with age — not early solids.


Myth 11: “A chubby baby is a healthy baby.”

✔ Truth:

  • Healthy babies come in all shapes and sizes.

  • Focus on developmental milestones, activity levels, and medical checkups — not just weight.


Conclusion

Parenting involves making choices every day — and it’s easier when you know the facts.
Understanding the truth behind common myths helps you raise your child with confidence, clarity, and peace of mind.

At Klub Zeenius, we’re here to support modern parents with trusted information and thoughtfully curated baby essentials.