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Bringing a new baby into the world can be a magical and joyful experience but it can also be overwhelming and stressful. Despite all the stress, one of the most important things you can do for your baby in these early days is to build the foundation for a strong attachment. Attachment is the bond that forms between a child and their primary caregiver(s). This relationship plays an essential role in development and even influences how they perceive themselves and interact with the world around them! Building a strong attachment with your baby can lead to better mental health outcomes, improved social skills, and stronger relationships later in your child’s life.
So, how do you build attachment with your new baby? It all starts with being responsive and attuned to their needs! Attunement means recognizing and attending to your baby’s physical and emotional needs in a timely and sensitive way. As you and your child grow together, you’ll quickly learn their hungry cry, angry cry, dirty diaper cry, and cuddle cry. When you learn to recognize and attend to these different cries, your baby learns that they can trust you to be there for them and to care for their needs. This trust-based relationship is the foundation of a healthy attachment.
Another way to build a better relationship with your child is through singing, playing, talking with, and snuggling with your baby. Babies thrive on hearing their caregiver’s voice and engaging play can help your baby’s brain develop better cognitive and social skills. Simple activities like peek-a-boo, making silly faces, and singing nursery rhymes can go a long way in developing and building the connection between you and your child. The key is engaging in positive interactions with your baby on a regular basis. Here are a few more tips to get you thinking:
Early Bonding
Skin-to-skin contact is a great way to bond with your baby. Spend time cuddling, holding them close, playing together, watching TV together, and giving lots of hugs and kisses. This can be especially helpful in the first few weeks after birth as you and your baby adjust to your new life together.
Eye Contact
When you talk to your baby, be sure to look them in their eyes. This helps to establish a connection and shows your baby they have your undivided attention. Even the smallest moments of affection and intimacy can have a huge effect on your relationship with your baby.
Talking to your Baby
Even if your baby can’t respond, talking to them is still important! Not only does it help build important language skills, but it also reinforces your bond with your baby by comforting them with an upbeat and positive voice.
Creating a Predictable Routine
You’ve probably noticed that your baby eats, sleeps, and plays at similar times each day. Babies thrive on routine! Establishing a predictable routine for feeding, sleeping, and playtime can help your baby feel more secure by knowing exactly what to expect each day. By having a daily routine, you are showing your baby that you’ll take care of them and keep them safe and sound.
Building attachment with your baby is important, but it isn’t always easy! It’s important to be patient and give yourself and your baby time to bond. Developing and building attachments is a life-long process and it’s okay if it doesn’t happen overnight. Remember to give yourself grace as you navigate your new role as a parent. If you find yourself struggling with postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression, low energy, or are struggling with the transition of having a new baby in the house, be sure to reach out to a professional for help! Ask your doctor or seek out a therapist who is skilled in working with your issues. If you’re not sure where to start, my website is a great place to start!
Every baby is unique and your relationship with your baby will develop at its own pace. With patience, love, and consistency, you can build a strong and loving connection with your little one that will last a lifetime!
For more information about parenting, attachment, and parent mental health, follow me on Instagram and TikTok at @Therapist_Manmby or on Facebook at Mandalyn Castanon, LMHC.
