Simple ways to bond with your baby
Struggling to bond with your baby? Don't worry, it can take some time. Here are a few simple ways you can share the love.
Some new moms immediately bond with their newborn baby. For others, it may take a little longer, and this is perfectly normal. The good news is that there are a few ways you can bond with your little one and get to know each other better.
Skin-to-skin contact
In the early days, skin-to-skin contact is a great bonding tool. Whenever you can, dress your baby in just a nappy so you can let him lie on your bare chest and feel the natural warmth of your skin and smell your natural scent. Bathing with your baby is also a great way to achieve this.
Make the most of awake time
When your baby is awake, take as many opportunities as you can to make eye-contact with him. Nappy changing is a great time to do this. Talk gently so that you can hold his attention and stare into his eyes.
Use feeding time to bond
Besides providing your baby with nature’s perfect milk, when you breastfeed your baby, the intimate contact promotes bonding. Through this, your baby also learns that you’re a source of care and comfort. If you’re not breastfeeding, bottle-feeding time can be of equal benefit as you hold your baby close to you and read his facial expressions.
Respond when your baby cries
When your baby cries, respond to his needs as soon as you can. You’re not spoiling your child by picking him up to comfort him; you’re teaching him that he can rely on and trust you. Studies have shown that babies whose needs are attended to more quickly, are quicker to calm and relax and cry less.
Baby Massage
Your touch is soothing and reassuring for your baby, and a gentle massage can be one of the best ways to offer comfort. Find a massage course or click here for tips and advice when massaging your baby.
