Learn about the importance of bonding with your child and ways to do it.
\nBy UNICEF<\/p>\n
Children thrive when they feel safe, loved and nurtured. For many parents, forming a close bond with their child comes easily. For many others who did not feel cherished, protected or valued during their own childhood, it can be much more of a struggle. The good news is that parenting skills can be learned. Read on to learn why bonding with your little one is crucial to their development and well-being, and some simple ways that you can do it every day.<\/p>\n
Why building a relationship with your child matters<\/b>
\nProviding your child with love and affection is a pre-requisite for the healthy development of their brain, their self-confidence, capacity to thrive and even their ability to form relationships as they go through life.<\/p>\n
You literally cannot give babies \u2018too much\u2019 love. There is no such thing as spoiling them by holding them too much or giving them too much attention. Responding to their cues for feeding and comfort makes babies feel secure. When babies are routinely left alone, they think they have been abandoned and so they become more clingy and insecure when their parents return.<\/p>\n
When you notice your child\u2019s needs and respond to them in a loving way, this helps your little one to feel at ease. Feeling safe, seen, soothed and secure increases neuroplasticity, the ability of the brain to change and adapt. When a child\u2019s world at home is full of love, they are better prepared to deal with the challenges of the larger world. A positive early bond lays the ground for children to grow up to become happy, independent adults. Loving, secure relationships help build resilience, our ability to cope with challenges and recover from setbacks.<\/p>\n
How to bond with your child<\/b>
\nParenting can be difficult at times and there is no such thing as a perfect parent. But if you can provide a loving and nurturing environment for your child to grow up in and you\u2019re a steady and reliable presence in their life, then you\u2019ll be helping them to have a great start in life. Here are some ways that can help you build a strong connection with your child from the moment you meet.<\/p>\n