For most new moms, clinginess is second nature.

It makes perfect evolutionary sense for a mother not to want to spend too much time apart from her young baby, even if this is not the most practical way to feel all of the time. When we think of all the effort that it takes to bring a child into the world, it is understandable that a mom wants to keep them close in their earliest stages of life. Add to that the idiosyncrasies of every baby’s personal schedule, and it can feel very difficult to let them out of her sight.

Nonetheless, there usually comes a time when a mom cannot justify being with her child 24/7. When this happens is personal to every mother and baby, and it depends on various circumstances. If in doubt, it is better to wait a little longer before entrusting an infant’s care to somebody else for a little while.