Bonding with your baby doesn’t stop at birth—it’s a continuous process that grows stronger through everyday interactions. Here are some simple yet powerful ways to strengthen your connection with your newborn:
Skin-to-Skin Contact
Holding your newborn skin-to-skin immediately after birth is one of the most effective ways to establish a deep bond. Skin-to-skin contact helps regulate your baby’s heartbeat, temperature, and breathing, while also offering a sense of security. It’s a comforting experience for both you and your baby.
- Why It’s Important: This close physical contact not only calms your baby but also triggers the release of oxytocin (the "love hormone"), which helps strengthen your emotional connection.
- For More Information: Explore the benefits of skin-to-skin contact in UNICEF's article on Skin-to-Skin Contact here.
Get Involved in Everyday Care
Caring for your newborn is a great way to build a bond while contributing to their wellbeing. Whether it's changing nappies, bathing, or feeding, each care activity provides a valuable opportunity to connect with your baby.
- How It Helps: Being involved in everyday care helps you feel more confident as a parent and allows your baby to get used to your presence, voice, and touch.
- Learn More: For guidance on newborn care, visit the NHS Newborn Care Guide here.
Talk and Sing to Your Baby
Talking, singing, and reading aloud to your baby supports both bonding and early language development. Even from birth, your baby responds to the sound of your voice, which can be incredibly comforting.
- Why It Matters: Regularly talking or singing to your baby helps build their familiarity with language, strengthens your connection, and lays the foundation for their communication skills.
- For Tips: Check out BBC’s Tiny Happy People for ideas on how to engage with your baby through speech and music.
Babywearing
Carrying your baby in a sling or carrier—a practice known as babywearing—can be an effective way to bond. Babywearing keeps your baby close, providing them with comfort and security, while allowing you to go about your daily activities.
- The Benefits: Babywearing promotes bonding through constant physical contact and can soothe a fussy baby by providing a sense of safety.
- Learn More: For advice on choosing the right baby sling or carrier, visit the NCT Babywearing Guide here.
Building a Bond
Building a bond with your baby takes time, patience, and consistent involvement. Whether it’s through skin-to-skin contact, daily care activities, or simply talking to your baby, each interaction strengthens your connection and supports your baby’s physical and emotional development.