Bringing home baby from the hospital is a momentous occasion all over the world. While many new moms celebrate quietly, others commemorate the moment with solemn, religious or even lavish rituals. Learning more about the global traditions for a mother and her newborn is a fun way to connect with your family’s culture and brainstorm ideas for your own homecoming. It may even inspire you to look at motherhood in a different way than before!

Infant Traditions in Turkey  

In the Republic of Turkey, mothers celebrate the birth of their new baby by drinking a beverage referred to as a lohusa serbeti, or “postpartum sherbet.” The concoction is water combined with sugar, cloves and cinnamon colored with red food coloring. While it’s usually first served in the hospital, mom continues to drink it when she brings baby home, as it is thought to help with milk supply and production.  

Once baby settles in, it’s also time for the baby shower. After 20 days of rest, loved ones will come to the family home to see the little one, give him or her presents and enjoy a bit of the sherbet drink themselves. Mother and child will also visit friends and family to receive gifts and well wishes.  

Fun with Baby in Finland  

When a child is born in Finland, all moms receive an enormous care package from the state government. In addition to diapers and newborn clothing, it also includes crib bedding, a complete infant’s first aid kit and even a makeshift crib. If baby already received many of their supplies from loved ones, parents can opt for a cash grant instead.  

It’s just another excellent way for Finnish kids to get a head start in what’s considered one of the best countries to live in around the globe. Moms and dads also receive a long maternity and paternity leave, among other benefits. These perks, which are considered societal rights, help both stay at home parents and working couples adjust to their new life.  

Homecoming Customs in Bali  

Once a baby is born in the Indonesian province of Bali, their feet are not allowed to touch the floor. This is even true when little ones are brought home from the hospital! It’s because all small children are considered by Balinese tradition to be divine beings sent from Heaven.  

It is only on the 210th day of life, just short of a year on the Earth, that kids can let their feet hit the ground. This is when Balinese boys and girls are considered relieved of their divine state. At the same time, they are also considered human.  

Baby Rituals in Japan  

New mothers in Japan don’t go directly home after they leave the hospital. In fact, mom and baby stay at her parents’ house for 21-30 days. This special period gives everyone enough time to recuperate and bond. Dad continues to run the household while friends and family help him with chores and food.  

During the month of waiting, loved ones visit with the new family to eat a traditional celebratory dish of red rice and beans. Crying contests are also popular, in which the first child to cry in a group of infants is considered the healthiest and most fortunate of all.  

Infant Rites in Egypt  

About a week after baby arrives in Egypt, he or she is put into a large, decorated sieve. This container is usually adorned with jewels or crystals to signify the importance of the child’s homecoming. When the time is right, he or she is placed into the sieve and gently shaken. This process is thought to help prepare the infant for the harsh realities of the world.  

Once this part is done, it’s time to have a little fun. The child is placed on the floor, with a variety of gifts surrounding them. This practice is thought to give baby good fortune and luck. Blessings are given to ensure a long, happy life for mom and baby, as well as anyone else who lives in the household.  

Homecoming Celebrations in Brazil  

In Brazil, the days following baby’s birth are spent traveling. Mom and baby visit the homes of friends and family members, giving them small tokens of their appreciation. These may be small gifts or candy, as well as a note thanking them for their kindness and devotion.  

During these trips, the baby wears red. The color is thought to provide blessings. It is also a tool used to keep evil spirits away during infancy and throughout their life.  

Observances in Nigeria  

Nigerian children are given water, palm oil, kola nut and salt and pepper a few days after their birth. The water is thought to keep them from making enemies, while the palm oil encourages a simple, anxiety-free lifestyle. Kola nuts symbolize long life, while salt and pepper will keep life events stimulating and interesting.  

All of the immediate care after homecoming is provided by the child’s grandmother, aunt or a close friend. This includes the first bath, which is sacred in Nigerian culture. This washing is also important because it reassures the mother that she will always have family and friends to help her care for her little one.  

Welcoming Baby in Mexico  

Many mothers and their babies spend the first 40 days after the hospital in what is referred to as a “quarantine.” While it sounds clinical, it’s actually a much-needed period to rest and recharge. Much like in the United States, women abstain from sexual and physical activity.  

Women are also cautioned to refrain from eating spicy foods until the 40-day period is over. Neighbors and family members are happy to help out with household chores and cooking. While mom rests with her child, female relatives also wrap her recovering belly in a cloth girdle or sash.  

Creating Your Own Baby Homecoming Tradition  

As you see here, there’s really no right or wrong way to welcome your child home! If you don’t already have plans for your baby, the customs and ritual ideas above will allow you to create a family tradition of your own. Whether you want to copy a rite from your parents’ home country or combine a few practices for an unforgettable first week home, don’t be afraid to ask your loved ones for help! Planning the big day ahead of time will help you relax as you wait on your little one.  

As your anticipation builds, remember to come congratulate and reward yourself! Every new mom is a strong, beautiful and amazing woman, no matter where they’re from. Giving birth and having your little one in your arms is a true celebration—and mama, you’ve earned it!  

You might also want to read this article about making your home baby safe.