Question for newborns who catnap (or don't nap)

My DS is 3 weeks old. We are able to get him to nap for v.v. short periods of time 30 min's top (sometimes) when we use the "5 S's" and a swing. My question is for those who also have poor nappers/v. alert newborns is what they are doing when not sleeping?!?! I can't put my son down for more then 60 seconds if he isn't eating or sleeping w/out him crying and it makes me feel terrible but sometimes you just have to run and go to the bathroom or feed the pets etc. Is it normal for them to do nothing but cry and when not eating/sleeping/being held or should he be content for v. short periods of time w/out crying? Everyone always talks about not letting a newborn cry but what if that is the only thing they resort to w/out a breast in the mouth or actually sleeping.Thanks!

Re: Question for newborns who catnap (or don't nap)

my DS is also 3 weeks and rarely naps. i play loud music or give him the pacifier and he seems content with it.

also, when he falls asleep on my chest, he can sleep for up to 2 hours at a time, but then that means being stuck in the same spot for 2 hours

Re: Question for newborns who catnap (or don't nap)

ITA agree about music. We prop DD in the boppy and play music when she cries and it really calms her. Try all different kinds too. DD is in love with Call Me Maybe and actually passes out when we play Party Rock Anthem - don't ask how DH figured that out! Also maybe try a front carrier. DD cries for a few minutes sometimes but then usually passes out.