baby won't settle during day. recommendations ?

Question

So my baby boy Jacob is 3 weeks old and he sleeps through the night needing 3 feeds, usually in this time I change his nappy (diaper) and settle him so he sleeps and that is when I then sleep after putting him back in his Moses basket.

Recently though after his 8am feed he just stays awake and you can tell he is tired , his eyes get heavy and he does start to nod off but then wakes himself up for no reason and gets cranky and cries.

I know he is having a growth spurt but surely there's something else I can do to help ?
During the day is when I get my jobs done so it seems abit difficult when he is crying and only stops when someone is holding him.
I don't want him to rely on cuddles to sleep otherwise it's a bad habit to get into

I'm still learning I'm a single mum and this is my first baby + I've only been given advise from an antenatal class as I've had no proper experience with a baby before just babysat my sisters friends baby who was 6 months old

Answer

He's getting old enough to want to be awake and see what's around him.
Play with him, make sure he gets tummy time before feeds. 
Holding babies will never spoil them. They will want to be close to you no matter what, especially so young. There's no such thing as a spoiled newborn. Consider getting a baby wrap so you can do your work and he can nap or hang out on you for a little bit, hands free.

Answer

He spent 9 months being cradled in your womb, and now he's beginning to realize that he's not there any more and since you are all he has ever known. He needs your comfort to feel safe. Pick him up and hold and cuddle him when he asks to be cuddled.
There is no possible way to spoil a baby so young.
That being said, if you need to get stuff done, try using a sling or wrap to keep baby close to you, on your chest and so he can hear your heartbeat. Chances are he'll sleep most of the time he's strapped to you too.

Answer

And if he starts to look tired go in a dark room offer a bottle or boob and see if that baby will take a little rest.  At that point too they may need more dark than light to nap during the day.  Most can only stay awake for an hour or so at a time before needing another rest

Answer

He's so young, don't worry about getting him use to cuddles just yet - he wants it. Also, like mentioned, make sure he's getting a lot of activity before nap. Before he eats, let him adventure. Belly time is always fun, just be very active with him and then offer the food and reassurance with rest.

baby won't settle during day. recommendations ?

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