Since my baby was born, I’ve been constantly worried about his safety around my stepdaughter. She tries to pick him up when I’m not looking, and just recently, I caught her nearly dropping him multiple times. She also tried feeding him things that could choke him or spilled hot soup close to him. I locked the baby’s room door to keep him safe, but she somehow dragged a chair and climbed up to reach the bassinet. My heart nearly stopped when I rushed in and grabbed the baby away.
That moment was my breaking point. I realized I couldn’t relax even for a second without fearing something terrible might happen. I told my husband that until the baby is older and more stable, his daughter can’t come to our home. She needs to stay with her biological mom. My husband was upset but didn’t argue, and I hope he understands my priority is our newborn’s safety.
I worry this decision might hurt our family dynamics, but I told my stepdaughter gently that I don’t hate her. She’s just too young to be around the baby unsupervised. When he grows older and stronger, they can play together safely. For now, I have to protect my baby above all else, and that’s what I’m focusing on.
I wish my husband and stepdaughter understood how delicate a newborn is and why I’m firm about this boundary. It’s painful, but my baby’s safety has to come first — no exceptions. I hope with time, everyone can find a way to adjust and grow as a family around this new life.
