Eight Ways to Bond With Your Baby
By Arabella Greatorex
Most
parents bond instantly with their babies, an intense feeling
that makes you want to hold and love and protect them. For some
parents, this can take a little longer, especially if there has
been
a difficult pregnancy or labor.
Research indicates that babies who develop fulfilling relationships
with their parents tend to grow into secure, well-adjusted adults
and even perform better at school.
Bonding is a natural process but there are many ways to help
out, especially if you provide focused, responsive care in a
nurturing environment.
Breastfeeding
A breastfed baby will receive regular close contact
with her mother, helping an early bond to develop. Unfortunately,
this is not always easy, so speak to your health visitor if you
need any help or assistance.
Touch
A baby's first communication is via touch, so hold your
baby close, cradle her in your arms or use a sling if you need
to get on with chores.
Massage
Massage provides a more structured method of touching
your baby and a way of promoting physical and mental growth as
well as the parent-baby bond.
Singing
No matter how tone deaf you may think you are, your
baby will love to hear your voice. The rhythmic nature of nursery
rhymes is very soothing and is believed to help with language
development.
Talk
Although she may not understand what you are saying, your
baby will love to hear you chatting away about what you are doing,
whether it is changing her nappy, peeling the potatoes or folding
the washing. She will gain confidence from the fact that you
are always near and always focused upon her, even if the household
chores need to be done.
Pull
a face
Even very young babies are fascinated by facial
expressions!
Regular
activities
Regular activities such as nappy-changing
time are a wonderful time to show your baby just how much you
love him. Talk to him, kiss his tummy, tell him what lovely dimples
he has and how much you love his smile. This will take your mind
off what a messy job it is
and show that you love him, no matter what.
Slow
down
Life is getting faster and faster, but slow and steady
is best for baby. Stop and spend time with your baby. Relax and
enjoy yourself. Your baby will love you no matter what.
© Arabella Greatorex
Arabella
Greatorex is the owner of www.naturalnursery.co.uk,
an online store selling organic and fairly traded products
for families including organic clothing and nappies, fairly
traded toys and natural toiletries.
