Why is bonding with your child important?

Touching is the very first communication your baby receives. The second your baby takes his or her first breath is the second he or she needs your lifetime love and affection.

A recent study confirms that a strong mother-child bond in the early years is key to a child's emotional development, and children, especially boys, who lack this bond have more behavior problems later in childhood.

This research, led by Dr. Pasco Fearon from the University of Reading, pulled together past evidence to answer scientific questions about attachment. According to attachment theory, children with secure attachments expect and receive support and comfort from their caregivers. Children with insecure attachments experience discouragement and rejection, which makes them vulnerable to developing behavioral problems.

Bonding with your child is very important for his or her emotional development. This may not come easy all the time. Here are a few tips on how to bond, comfort and help your baby develop:

Children develop best when:

• They feel safe with adults who care for them.  These first attachments help develop self-esteem and can serve as the basis of a child’s future relationships.

• They talk, sing, explore and play with you. Making up stories about daily events and singing silly songs provide your child with regular “conversations” that help him/her develop the language skills he/she will need to talk and learn to read.

• They read aloud with you. This builds his/her vocabulary and is one of the most important ways to prepare him/her for school.  Set aside a specific time each day to read together.  Involve your child in the story by asking questions.  Read the same book over and over. Try using silly voices. Listen to our early literacy podcast for more tips...http://podcast.first5kids.org/?p=147

Remember, parents and caregivers need care, too. There’s nothing wrong in reaching out and asking for help when you need it. Family, friends, neighbors, pediatricians, child care providers and others can assist you in fostering your child’s healthy development. Being loving and responsive towards your child will make a lifetime difference for him or her!