How many of you want to bond with your baby, but you just are not sure how? Bonding with your baby sometimes happens naturally, but other times, you need a little help in this department. This is especially true for foster and adoptive parents and mothers who have had a traumatic birth or are suffering from the ‘baby blues’ or postpartum depression. There is nothing wrong with admitting you would like to know more ways to bond with your baby! Even if your baby isn’t quite a baby anymore, these tips will help.
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Tips for Bonding with Your Baby
Spend time reading to your baby
One of my favorite bonding experiences with my baby has always been reading. Babies don’t even need to understand what you’re saying because reading makes them feel close and secure. Hold your baby close and read as many books as you feel comfortable reading. Your voice and touch will be soothing to them.
Cuddle together, daily
You know, life gets so busy sometimes that you forget to do the simple things with your kids. Each day, I carve out time to cuddle with my kids. There is just something special about stopping the world and making them feel special. For some reason, cuddling seems to be an excellent way to bond with my baby and kids. Give it a try if you’re looking for ways to bond with your baby or even older kids. My four year old still comes up to me regularly and says (often in a baby voice) “cuddle time mama?”
Babywear
Many moms see babywearing as purely for convenience, however, it is definitely dual-purpose. Not only does it give your arms some free time and can protect your back, but having your baby close to you for extended periods of time is also great for bonding. They can feel your warmth, smell you and feel safe. Be sure to babywear safely and always be close enough to kiss your baby’s head and feel them breathe.
Co-Sleep
We completely understand that this option is not for everyone. Some people love co-sleeping and get more sleep by making this decision. But it doesn’t work for all. Be sure to read up on how to co-sleep safely. We also recommend while you are at it, learn about safe sleep too. For some people, being close to your baby all night long improves bonding and attachment.
Talk to your baby
Did you know that you can have a conversation with your baby, even at an early age? Talk to your baby and allow him/her to coo back at you. You will not believe the conversations you can have with a baby of any age. Be sure to have the baby see your face, as not only are they looking for connection through your eyes, but they will also begin to mimic how you move your mouth to make sounds.
Spend time feeding your baby
Feeding time is a great time to bond. This is true whether you are breastfeeding or bottle feeding. Sit down and talk to your baby as you feed him or her. Get a cuddly blanket and just make this time special with your baby.
Sometimes feeding time can get stressful, especially if you have a baby with colic. If you do have a baby with colic, look for a bottle specifically made to minimize colic.
Our recommendation is the BPA-free Philips Avent Anti-Colic Bottle. It has not only been clinically proven to reduce colic and discomfort (60% less fussing at night too), but has won the Parent Tested Parent Approved Seal of Approval as well. It features:
- Advanced venting system proven to reduce colic
- Ribbed texture prevents collapse for uninterrupted feeding
- Nipple shape designed for secure latch
- Wider neck with rounded corners make it easier to clean
- Compatible with Philips Avent bottle and cup ranges, which is perfect for when your baby becomes a toddler!
I personally began using Philips Avent products with my first son, almost 12 years ago! He was an incredibly fussy baby and I wanted to do everything I could to minimize tummy troubles. Philips Avent continues to create products that have withstood the test of time. As a foster parent, these bottles are my go-to each time I receive a new baby. I absolutely love that as the child grows, the bottle can be adapted. My toddler now uses them as a sippy cup, while the baby uses them as a bottle.
Philips Avent Bottles Giveaway –
March/April 2017
Bonding with your baby is something special. You can do any of these activities with the baby or create your own. I’d love to hear how you bond with your baby!
Disclosure: I am part of the PTPA Brand Ambassador Program with Philips Avent and I received compensation as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.
