The arrival of a new baby is a significant event in any family, bringing joy, hope, and a sense of fulfillment. However, it can also be a bit of a daunting experience for first-time parents trying to get used to their new roles. Developing a close relationship with a newborn is challenging, as you must juggle bonding alongside adjusting to parenthood. Check out the information below to learn the top tips for bonding with your new baby.
Spend Time Cuddling
Physical touch is essential for your baby’s social and emotional development. Spending time cuddled up with your baby, holding them close to you, humming a gentle tune, or reading a book can help create a bond between you and your little one.
Sweet kisses or playful rounds of tickling your baby also allow you to interact through touch. Skin-to-skin contact is vital when establishing healthy bonds due to the release of natural hormones such as oxytocin—the “cuddle hormone.”
Keep Your Baby Close
Babywearing is another great way to bond and keep your little one close. It provides practical benefits such as enabling you to keep your hands free and your baby close to you, where they can listen to your breathing and heartbeat and get to know your scent. Various types of baby carriers are available, like slings, wraps, or structured carriers, depending on your preference.
Parenting Tip
Before wearing your baby, you should evaluate how to use a ring sling properly to ensure you know how to put it on. By wearing the sling correctly, you keep yourself and your baby comfortable.
Play With Your Baby
As your baby grows, playtime becomes even more important. Engage your baby in activities that stimulate their senses, like playing with toys or looking at books. Other fun activities such as singing and dancing together, playing peekaboo, and making silly faces can encourage your child’s social and emotional development.
Keep Bedtime Comforting
Bedtime routines create a sense of security and comfort for your baby, but they are also an opportunity for bonding. You can use this time to cuddle, read stories, sing lullabies, or talk softly to your baby before they drift off to dreamland.
Start getting your baby ready before their scheduled bedtime so that you can get them cozy. If you want your baby asleep at eight o’clock, start getting them ready for bed by seven.
Parenting Tip
Some babies have difficulty falling asleep; consider different ways to help your baby sleep better. Specific items like a white noise machine provide a comforting sound after you leave the nursery; this decreases the chance of your child waking up in the middle of the night as they grow.
Bonding Takes Time
The final tip for bonding with your new baby is to remember that creating a relationship takes time; don’t be too hard on yourself. Parenting is a full-time job, and it can be exhausting at times. Taking care of yourself is essential to be present for your baby. Creating a close attachment doesn’t always happen overnight, and that’s okay. Your love and affection for your baby are what matter most.
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