During the newborn transition, a grandmother reports feeling left out. Which factor is most likely contributing to this feeling?

• A. The grandmother lives a significant geographical distance away from the new family.
• B. The grandmother dislikes babies and does not want to visit.
• C. The baby has a different routine from what she expected.
• D. The parents limit all visits due to safety concerns.

Answer: (A)

During the newborn transition, staying connected with the extended family and finding ways to participate in the baby’s routines is important for everyone’s sense of belonging. When the grandmother is geographically distant, she has fewer opportunities to be involved in daily infant care, feeding moments, and bonding activities. That limited participation naturally leads to feeling left out, because proximity and hands-on involvement are big ways grandparents connect with a new grandchild and support the parents.

The other scenarios would either reflect personal attitudes or specific situational constraints rather than the most common barrier to involvement. A dislike of babies would reduce interest in visiting regardless of distance, a different baby routine might cause some adjustment but doesn’t block presence, and safety-based visit limits can shape access but aren’t as universal a barrier as physical distance in explaining this feeling.

To help, find ways to increase involvement despite distance—scheduled visits, video calls during feeds or routines, sharing photos or videos, or planning a visit when feasible. This keeps the grandmother’s connection with the baby and the family intact during this transition.