Many parents worry about bonding with their little ones. When pregnant, it is easy to feel a connection to your baby, but once they are born, you might feel a subtle separation. Bonding doesn’t need to be complicated. You can use a newborn starter bundle as a tool to bond with your child, taking the time to have skin-to-skin contact while giving them necessary vitamins. That said, skin-to-skin is not the only tool for bonding with your baby. Discover five simple and effective strategies.
1. Responding to Crying
Your newborn is in a whole new world, which can feel intimidating. They need to learn that you are always there for them. To help your child bond with you, respond when they cry.
While many parents want their children to learn to self-soothe, you do not need to worry about this too much when they are newborns. Feel free to cuddle and cradle your baby when they cry and need your attention.
2. Talking to Your Newborn
Your newborn will not speak a word until about 12 months, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t talk to them. Talking to your child is how they learn to communicate. Also, speaking to your newborn is comforting and creates a positive response, increasing the natural bond between parent and child. The next time you offer your little one something from the newborn baby bundles in your pantry, talk to them about why you’re offering it.
3. Holding Your Baby (Skin-to-Skin)
One of the best ways to create a connection with your little one is through skin-to-skin contact or holding them. According to several organizations, including UNICEF, skin-to-skin touch supports physical and developmental outcomes for babies while improving the bond between parents and children. Also, the contact increases parents’ oxytocin levels, helping reduce stress and blood pressure.
4. Playing With Your Baby
If you really want to bond with your baby, play with them. Children learn and connect through play, so don’t be afraid to get goofy with your newborn. Some games you might try include peek-a-boo and got-your-nose. You can also read stories to your little ones, making up voices for the characters and enacting different scenes. Don’t be embarrassed to act a little foolish around your children.
5. Making Eye Contact
Eye contact is a crucial element of communication and plays a vital role in relationships. Making eye contact shows that you respect or admire someone and ensures they have your complete attention. While your newborn may not talk yet, they still feel important when you make eye contact.
Once a baby is born, it can feel challenging to bond with them. Parents often complicate what it means to connect with a child, making it difficult for them emotionally. Bonding with a little one is as simple as being there for them and showing compassion. If you struggle to connect or bond with your child, talk to a doctor or family care professional. You can also try the above techniques to make the task more manageable.
