Building Trust with Your Newborn
“A newborn baby has only three demands. They are warmth in the
arms of its mother, food from her breasts, and security in the
knowledge of her presence. Breastfeeding satisfies all three.”
-Grantly Dick-Read MD (author of Natural Childbirth)
Building trust with your newborn is a journey that helps create a lifetime of love and attachment. This bond not only supports your baby’s physical and emotional growth but also makes them feel safe and cared for. As you experience these early days of motherhood, remember that every hug, gentle touch, and kind word helps your little one feel secure. Enjoy this precious time together, knowing that your love, attention, and breast milk are the best gifts you can give.1
Physical Connection: Hold your baby skin-to-skin immediately after birth and as often as you can afterward. Especially in the early weeks, this not only promotes bonding but also helps to regulate your baby’s body temperature and heart rate while encouraging frequent feeding. Use gentle strokes and cuddles—holding your baby close helps them feel safe and cherished.1
Eye Contact and Communication: Maintain eye contact and talk to your baby. Your voice is comforting and familiar, helping them feel connected. Pay attention to your baby’s cues—facial expressions, movements, and sounds—to respond appropriately to their needs.1
Consistent Care: Attend to your baby’s needs, whether for food, comfort, or a diaper change. Responding quickly, day and night, helps them learn that they can rely on you. Establishing predictable patterns for feeding, sleeping, and play provides your baby with a sense of security.1
Be Present: Spend quality time with your baby, free from distractions. Being fully present helps reinforce your bond. Narrating your activities and surroundings helps your baby learn and feel included in your world, which expands their language development and emotional growth.1
Engagement Through Play: Engage in simple games like peek-a-boo or make funny faces. This interaction encourages trust, playfulness, and emotional connection. Introduce age-appropriate toys that stimulate your baby’s senses and encourage exploration and interaction.1
Create a Safe Environment: Ensure your home environment is calm and welcoming. A peaceful atmosphere helps your baby feel secure. Regularly check that your baby’s surroundings are safe as they grow, become more mobile, and begin to explore.1
Nurturing Your Own Well-being: Prioritize your physical and mental health. When you feel good, you’re better able to care for your baby and respond to their needs. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from family or friends. A strong support network can ease stress and allow you to focus on bonding with your baby.1
What If I Have Questions?
If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:
- Babycare for the Breastfed Baby
- Babywearing & Breastfeeding
- Sleep for the Breastfed Baby
To register for these classes, log into your portal or click here.
Want More Info?
For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:
https://www.hersourcehealth.com/aeroflow-care-guides/
References