Why This Photo of a Father and Son Practicing Skin-to-Skin Contact Is Going Viral

Many big brothers and sisters take their new role very seriously, but one little boy stepped up from the very moment his twin siblings were born.

In the precious photo that's capturing the hearts of thousands across the internet, a father-son duo were candidly snapped practicing skin-to-skin contact with the newest additions of their family. The proud older brother perfectly emulates his father as the pair separately bond with the newborns while enjoying some quiet time.

The original post was first shared on the Swedish Facebook page Foraeldre og Fodsel but has taken off since recently being translated to English and reposted by NINO Birth. The practice of holding a newborn directly against a person's skin not only soothes a baby, but it also promotes an easier transition to extrauterine life. From helping to regulate temperature, heart rate, and respiration to impacting glucose levels, this concept has more benefits beyond just promoting bonding between parent and child — or in this case, child and child.