quick clicks

dads today articles

dads today q&a

message boards

research baby names

prepare a birth plan

content channels

ip channel rss feeds

read birth stories

read parenting stories

recommended books

e-newsletters

safety recalls

ip diaries

ip store

mom of the month

dad of the month

editor's letter

letters to the editor

Bonding for Life

Develop a Connection with Baby

By Lyn Mettler

Sadlier frequently held her daughter in a carrier and experienced these benefits firsthand. "Once she was home, I often carried her in a Snugli while I did housework," she says. "She snoozed peacefully, listening to my heartbeat, and I accomplished things around the house."

Bonding may also be different for moms than it is for dads. Samberg says dads may have a more difficult time because they often feel left out, but she suggests that they start bonding right at birth by cutting the umbilical cord or holding the baby, particularly if the mom is unable to. Samberg also recommends that each parent choose different activities to do with the baby, so the baby begins to associate one activity with a particular parent.

"Each parent will find their own things that really work for them," she says. Whether it's reading Green Eggs and Ham, giving the baby a nightly massage or creating a special tradition to share, it's the quality of the experience that matters most. With a simple touch, word or shared gaze, parents can set their babies on the path toward a promising future.

Click here for more information on how to bond with your baby!

Want to see more?

• My 10-week-old still isn't smiling much. In fact, she's pretty non-interested in social interaction. Should I be concerned?
• Attachment Parenting: Instinctive Care
• Reasons to Read to your Baby
• Introducing Music to your Baby
• Sing and Play with Your Baby

Post As:
Enter your comment below:
Title
Comment Text
CAPTCHA
Please note that any comments submitted become the property of Disney Family / iParenting and can be edited and posted at our discrection.