Already, you have probably noticed that your baby gravitates towards you. You are the face, voice, and scent that he or she recognizes the most. You’re also the one who gets the most smiles and giggles, not to mention, the very best cuddles.
Welcome to parenthood!
But the work of developing a secure connection isn’t over yet, and helping your baby to feel loved is one of the best ways you can help him or her to continue feeling secure in your attachment. So how do you go about doing that?
Well, it starts with being there to hold and cuddle with your little one as often as possible. You’ve probably heard that you can’t spoil a baby, and at this age, that sentiment is absolutely true. Your little one just wants to be held close, and providing that can do wonders for helping them to feel safe and loved.
Of course, you only have two arms, and there are probably other things you need to get done throughout the day as well. This is where infant carriers can come in especially handy—wraps and backpack-looking contraptions that will allow you to hold your baby close and still keep your hands free in the process. Wearing your baby in such a way also provides a great opportunity for you to make lots of eye contact, to gently kiss their head regularly, and to narrate the things you are doing while you carry him or her around.
Which, by the way, is another great way to show your affection! Talking to your baby regularly, pointing out the different things you see, and making eye contact as you engage can help your little one to feel even more connected to you. This narration of your life will also help your baby to develop language skills and an understanding of the world they are living in.
But let’s not forget one of the most obvious ways to help your baby feel secure and loved; by meeting his or her needs! Changing diapers, providing feedings, picking your baby up when he or she cries out; these are all great ways to ensure your baby feels safe and loved.
Finally, skin-to-skin contact continues to be comforting at this age. Your little one loves being nestled against you, hearing your heartbeat and feeling your skin against theirs. You may find that if your baby is having a rough night, engaging in skin-to-skin, perhaps in a warm bath, can do wonders for helping them to calm down and relax into your arms; the place where they feel the safest and most loved!
Written by Leah Campbell, infertility advocate, adoptive mama, writer and editor. Find me @sifinalaska on Twitter.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general informational basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright Health & Parenting Ltd 2016. All rights reserved.
