The physical, emotional and social health of the child is also fostered by providing nurturing care and showing love to the baby to create a bond of trust between the infant and the parent(s) or caregiver(s). The trusting relationship serves as the platform for the child to be interested in the world, grow, and learn. The physical, emotional and social health of the child is also fostered by providing nurturing care and showing love to the baby to create a bond of trust between the infant and the parent(s) or caregiver(s). The trusting relationship serves as the platform for the child to be interested in the world, grow, and learn. When a baby grows up having only their physical needs met at the expense of emotional or social needs, the lack of love and nurturing could eventually have physical consequences such as weight gain, susceptibility to illnesses or a failure to thrive.
When and how can you nurture your child?
When parents express love and care to their babies, they can be done at any time of the day during routine activities such as during bath or feeding, change of diapers, bedtime, etc. Doing this sometimes require that the parents and caregivers talk and interact with the child. A way of doing so is by describing the actions that the parent is taking and the things in their surroundings or the environment.
Another way is by asking the baby questions, regardless of whether the baby can understand the question or provide a response to it. Other activities that foster interaction between the caregiver and the child include singing, laughing, reading, praying, going for a walk together. Regular hugs and kisses also play a significant role in baby development.
The benefits of these interactions for the baby are improved social skills, development of language comprehension, and enhanced ability to expresses themselves. Hugs and kisses serve the purpose of building self-confidence in the baby and creating feelings of security and love in the family.
Taking advantage of playtimes
Playtimes are great periods to strengthen the bond between yourself and the baby. Playtimes can be scheduled to be part of your daily routine. What the baby benefits from regular playtime and fun periods are a stimulated mind and senses. Playtime events such as games, songs, use of toys help to enhance the motor skills, cognitive skills and social skills of the baby. When in doubt about what to do, you can listen to songs or watch baby videos together. The internet is replete with numerous resources that can help the baby grow.
Take note, however, that babies often give cues about whether they are willing to participate in the fun activities or not. This is because they can be under-stimulated at times and over-stimulated at other times. Also, some activities can be overwhelming for babies or even tire them out, and it is the responsibility of the caregiver to look out for signs that reveal such.
Nu uita: fii realist, doreste-ti mereu imposibilul!