Can babies sense grief in their caregivers, and does it affect them?

Yes — even very young babies are remarkably attuned to their caregivers' emotional states. They detect changes in tone of voice, facial expressions, physical tension, and routines. A grieving caregiver may be less responsive, which can temporarily affect the baby's sense of security. This doesn't mean you need to hide your grief — babies benefit from emotional authenticity. Maintain feeding and sleep routines as best you can, accept help from others, and prioritize skin-to-skin and responsive care. Consult your pediatrician if you're struggling to care for your baby during grief.