According to Ask Dr. Sears, trust between an infant and his parent occurs when the parent responds to his cries and needs in a sensitive manner. Trust is built through the bonding process that occurs when parents bring home their new baby. When an infant knows that his parent will meet his needs, he begins to form the trust that will help their relationship thrive and mature as he grows. Most trust-building or bonding activities come naturally to parents. A lack of trust can lead to poor socialization or failure to thrive in an infant.
Step 1
Feed your baby when she asks. A newborn baby needs to to eat often and being able to rely on you to feed her when she is hungry will help her learn to trust you as her parent now and as she grows up. Breastfeeding can enhance this early bonding and trust-building process.
Step 2
Change your baby's diaper when he needs it. Wearing a wet or soiled diaper is uncomfortable for a baby and keeping him clean and dry allows him to trust you to help him when he needs it and to keep him comfortable.
Step 3
Learn to interpret your baby's cries. She will cry differently when she is hungry than she will when she is tired or bored. Understanding what her cries mean will allow you to quickly meet her needs at the moment, which helps her feel that you are going to be there to care for her when she needs it.
Step 4
Lay your baby down to sleep when he is tired. Adequate rest is important for his growth and will allow him to better interact with you when he is awake. This provides opportunities to bond and build trust because he will be well rested and healthy. Rocking your baby and singing to him are also good ways to help your baby learn that he can trust you. These actions will soothe him and make him feel safe when he is with you.
Step 5
Touch your baby. This is done by holding her or lightly massaging her. Babies thrive on skin-to-skin contact, so touch is a powerful way to teach your baby that she can trust you. Touch can also be achieved by playing gently with your baby or giving her a bath.
Tips and Warnings
- Talk to your baby's pediatrician to find classes or resources about baby massage and follow the directions carefully for the best benefit to you and your baby. If you feel you and your baby aren't bonding, contact his doctor for advice.
