Bonding With Your Baby
What’s Happening
Attachment is a deep, lasting bond that develops
between a caregiver and child during the baby’s
first few years of life. This attachment is critical
to the growth of a baby’s body and mind. Babies
who have this bond and feel loved have a better
chance to grow up to be adults who trust others
and know how to return affection.
No one knows your child like you do, so you are in
the best position to recognize and fulfill your child’s
needs. Parents who give lots of loving care and
attention to their babies help their babies develop a
strong attachment. Affection energizes your child to
grow, learn, connect with others, and enjoy life.
Here are some ways to promote bonding:
Respond when your baby cries. Try to
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understand what he or she is saying to you. You can’t “spoil” babies with too much attention—they need
and benefit from a parent’s loving care even when they seem inconsolable.
Hold and touch your baby as much as possible. You can keep him close with baby slings, pouches, or
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backpacks (for older babies).
Use feeding and diapering times to look into your baby’s eyes, smile, and talk to your baby.
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Read, sing, and play peek-a-boo. Babies love to hear human voices and will try to imitate your voice and
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the sounds you make.
As your baby gets a little older, try simple games and toys. Once your baby can sit up, plan on spending
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lots of time on the floor with toys, puzzles, and books.
The best gift you can give your baby is YOU. The love and attention you give your baby now will stay
with him or her forever and will help your baby grow into a healthier and happier child and adult.
This tip sheet was created with input from experts in national organizations that work to protect children and strengthen families. To
download this tip sheet or for more parenting tips, go to www.childwelfare.gov/preventing/promoting/parenting or call 800.394.3366.
What You Can Do
What You Might Be Seeing
Normal babies:
Have brief periods of sleep, crying or fussin