How to Bond with an Infant

Having a baby is an exciting and scary adventure. Infants will learn who they can trust by the experiences of their first few days and months. Bonding with your baby from the very beginning is an important aspect of the relationship you will have together over the first few years. Not only will bonding with your baby make you love him like you never expected, but it will also make him feel loved and show him that he can trust you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Sling

How to Bond with an Infant

1. Hold your baby skin-to-skin immediately after birth. This step is extremely important for your baby as she has just arrived into a new and frightening environment. She will know your scent and will only feel comforted by you. If there are no emergencies, insist on holding her immediately-before the doctors can take her for measurements and testing.
2. Breastfeed your baby from the time he is born. This is the natural way for human babies to eat, and your baby will feel his safest while nursing at your breast. Nurse skin-to-skin as often as you can, especially within the first few days.
3. Hold your baby often during the first few months. When she cries, comfort her close to you. Dance with her, sing to her, talk softly to her.
4. Keep your baby in a sling. If you go out for walks, use a sling instead of a stroller. If your baby is fussy, keep him in a sling while you do housework around the house.
5. Play games with your baby. It is important to bond with her while she is happy as well as while she is upset. As you learn the different faces and noises that she enjoys, you will find both of you laughing and giggling throughout the day.
6. Co-sleep with your baby. Babies who sleep with their parents have been found to be more secure and confident as adults, and the bonding that occurs between baby and parents during this time is unbelievable.
7. Take time for yourself. Remaining true to yourself is incredibly important for your relationship with your baby. If you feel relaxed, rested and content, you will bond with your baby in a healthier manner.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that it is impossible to spoil an infant with too much love and attention. It is during this time that he learns who he can trust and who loves him. The more attention you give during the first few months, the better.
• If you decide to co-sleep, do not use heavy blankets, pillow top mattresses, or feather pillows or blankets.
• It is unsafe to co-sleep while under the influence of alcohol or drugs or if either parent is obese.