Overview

Babies develop a strong emotional attachment to parents who consistently provide loving, interactive attention and comfort. This emotional bond is critical for your baby so that he or she has a strong foundation on which to build positive relationships in the future.

You can help create and strengthen the emotional bond with your baby.

• Make frequent eye contact.

  For example, make eye contact when you feed your baby. Young babies love to look at your face and eyes. Cuddling your baby in the crook of your arm is about the perfect distance for your baby to see you well.

• Smile, talk, nod, and sing to your baby.
• Respond promptly to crying.

  Your baby will learn to trust that when he or she is in need, you will consistently come to give comfort.

• Gently rock your baby.

  Use a soft, soothing voice when you rock your baby.