Early attachment will help your baby during future relationships. Let’s get into how you can create this great relationship. It also helps with his mental and psychological well being
How Babies Form Attachments
Bonding usually comes naturally. It is an intuition between you and your baby that involves your responding sensitively to him. A baby develops an attachment to the person who provides his needs, is sensitive, caring and loving in consistent ways. So, mom, it is important that you are there, especially when your baby is distressed, angry or sick.
Different Ways You Can Bond with Your Baby
Baby to Mother
- Breastfeed your baby – breastfeeding is the first skin-to-skin contact type of bond g you will have with your baby.
- Respond quickly to his cries during the first few days – it teaches your baby that he can trust you to be there when he needs.
- Offer your baby a massage after a bath – It may surprise you how well they sleep after this.
- Go skin-to-skin – also known as kangaroo style, it involves the mother placing her baby on her naked chest.
- Kiss, hug, and cuddle him as often as you can
Mother to Baby
This is especially for those moms who do not naturally create a bond at first sight. In fact, experience baby blues throwing them off completely. This happens and is normal, so don’t be too hard on yourself. The following can be helpful in such a situation. Note, however, that they are not scientifically proven to work.
- Talk to your baby about anything and everything
- Keep a journal about any new thing he does and how he acts
- Take in your baby’s smell
- Go skin-to-skin
- Sleep when your baby sleeps – a well rested mom is a happy mom
- Look into the eyes of your baby during feeds
Seek medical help if you feel completely unable to create a bond with your little one, as this could be a sign of postnatal depression or anxiety.
How to Know your Baby is Developing an Attachment
These are early signs that can confirm your baby is growing attached.
- Your baby will respond to your smile with a movement or facial expression by 4 weeks.
- You will receive a smile back at 3 months
- She will seek comfort from you when upset between 4 and 6 months
- As he gets older he will have a special response for you.
Disclaimer:
Please note that development differs from one child to another.
This content is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be substituted for medical advice from your doctor.
Last reviewed January 2019
Sources: parents, caringforkids, bounty, parenting
