The journey of parenthood is a profound experience marked by the wonderful connection that develops between you and your baby. Snuggling, playing, and even making goo-goo eyes at your baby are all sweet ways of bonding—and are key to a child’s healthy development. In this article from The Dermo Lab, we will share 17 heartwarming ways to strengthen that special bond with your baby.
1. Look into your baby’s eyes during feeding
It’s not just about feeding: when your baby snuggles up to you to take a bottle or nurse, he hears your heartbeat, smells your scent, and is reassured by the skin-to-skin contact. Make sure you look into your baby’s eyes during feeding. By maintaining eye contact, your baby will remember who you are and what you mean to him. What’s more, babies are captivated by faces, and exchanging smiles fosters a sense of connection and mutual understanding.
2. Massage your baby
Gentle massages are a soothing way to communicate with your baby. The benefits of baby massage are amazing, and you’ll feel like a superhero as your child giggles and coos with delight. Use baby-safe oils and, with gentle, loving strokes, you’ll not only relax your child but also reinforce his or her physical intimacy.
3. Put your phone away
Right now, your family, friends, and work colleagues will understand that it takes you a few hours to reply to a message. Use this time to devote all that extra time to your child. Keep distractions at bay, concentrate on your baby, and savor the moments. Just being present contributes significantly to the bond you share.
4. Look in the mirror together
Your baby may not yet understand the concept of his reflection, but that’s okay. Babies love looking at human faces, and this is a great way to bring them closer to their own.
5. Listen to their heartbeat
Remember how exciting it was to hear that sweet sound during ultrasound scans? Now you can hear it whenever you like.
6. Sleep when your baby sleeps
Don’t feel – we repeat, don’t feel – guilty about going to bed at 7 pm. A well-rested parent is a happy parent, and your baby will make the most of it.
7. Go skin-to-skin
Whether you’ve worn your baby or not, the physical bond is essential to a child’s development. Whether it’s feeding your baby, cuddling him or simply holding him against you, this physical closeness fosters feelings of security and comfort.
8. Talk and sing
Your voice is a source of familiarity and warmth for your baby. Tell him about your day, sing lullabies or simply engage in light conversation. This not only encourages language development but also strengthens your bond.
In fact, babies can hear sounds outside their mother’s body at around 27 to 29 weeks, or 6 to 7 months. This is the ideal time to start reading to them and singing to them, which can help them recognize the sounds they often hear. After birth, familiar songs and stories (and the sound of your voice) can comfort them. If you’re parenting with a partner, inviting them to read and sing to your baby is a delightful way to prepare for your child’s arrival.
9. Respond to your baby’s cries
It’s not true that babies are “spoiled” by the attention of a loving parent. In fact, responding to your child’s distress builds trust and security. And while colic – which can cause at least three hours of crying a day, three or more days a week – can be frightening and exhausting, with the right support, you’ll be able to get through this brief stage in your child’s development.
For the first three months of his life, your baby needs to know that you’re there for him, and holding him in your arms when he cries helps reinforce this trust.
10. Bath your baby
Bath time can be a delightful bonding ritual. Enjoy the splashing and laughter as you carefully bathe your baby. This shared experience creates positive associations and builds trust.
11. Read together
Even if your baby doesn’t understand words, the cadence of your voice and the colorful pictures in baby books create a rich sensory experience. This early introduction to reading paves the way for a lifelong love of stories.
12. Explore the outdoors
Take your baby for a walk in the park, or just get outside for some fresh air. New sights, sounds, and gentle movements stimulate your baby while strengthening your bond.
13. Carry your baby
Carrying your baby in a sling or baby carrier allows you to be close to him while keeping your hands free. The gentle rocking of your movements mimics the comforting sensations of the womb.
14. Create routine moments
Establishing a routine keeps your baby predictable. Whether it’s a bedtime routine or a special morning ritual, these shared moments create a sense of security and strengthen your bond.
15. Give your baby kisses and more kisses
The easiest way to bond with your newborn is to turn down the volume on the outside world and lavish attention and love on her. Kiss all his toes, exchange a thousand smiles, let the laundry and dishes pile up, and savor these tender moments. It’s amazing to spoil a newborn with too much love and attention. You’ll both be happier, calmer, and more confident.
16. Don’t hesitate to ask for help
Parenting can be overwhelming, especially in the early days, when both parents are adjusting to the demands of caring for a newborn. It’s important to recognize that you don’t have to do everything alone. Don’t hesitate to ask for help, whether from your partner, family members or friends. Share baby-care responsibilities, as well as household chores like cleaning and cooking, so you can rest and spend more time bonding with your baby without worrying about other tasks.
17. Be patient and flexible
It takes time to create a strong bond. Be patient and flexible, adapting to your baby’s needs and signals. Remember that every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.
Your baby comes to you eager to bond. While parenting is not without worries, interruptions, and struggles, rest assured: bonding happens when you simply let it happen.
The bond between parent and baby is a unique and evolving one that grows stronger with time. By following the tips above, you’re nurturing a bond that will last a lifetime. Remember that every interaction, no matter how small, contributes to the richness of this extraordinary bond. Happy bonding!
Last Updated on March 19, 2024
