Babies are born with 85+ billion neurons and synapses that increase exponentially between birth and age 3; neuroplasticity during infancy is truly remarkable. The first few years in a child’s life are crucial in development, with anything from emotional regulation, stress response, and social cognition affected during this period. 

During these early stages, a child’s internal working models, if you will, are put into a framework for later life. This seems like a big deal – and it is – but don’t let it overwhelm you too much, as there’s a key way that helps positive emotional development: early bonding. 

The Power of Touch 

In many Western countries, we tend to focus on the birthing process, but lack support when it comes to postpartum practices. Often left fending for themselves, it’s no surprise parents lack the knowledge of bonding rituals, and just how important they are to a child’s development. 

Touch is one of the earliest senses we develop, and as such plays a significant role in a baby’s early steps. Skin-to-skin contact helps re gulate a newborn’s body temperature, heart rate, and even their stress levels. 

This is how it works, in very simple scientific terms: the soothing effects of gentle stroking activate nerves in the body, sending pleasure signals to the brain. You also see a reduction in cortisol levels, and the oxytocin system is activated to boost bonding. 

Further, frequent maternal touch increases activity in brain regions involved in social processes, with research showing that it helps infants with their ability to recognize faces. 

For babies born prematurely, the so-called kangaroo care method is very impactful. According to a recent study, babies introduced to skin-to-skin contact early score higher on developmental assessments at 6 months. 

Conversely, a lack of regular touch can have negative effects. Children deprived of skin-to-skin contact tend to see elevated stress hormones well into adolescence. 

Responsiveness and Trust 

Babies cry, but it’s not to manipulate, nor is it random. They’re communicating, seeking reassurance and help. It’s challenging, but as parents we need to provide consistent positive responses, building emotional trust, allowing babies to feel secure. 

This method is also known as “secure attachment”, and the medical community believes it’s a core component of emotional regulation and self-esteem in later life. 

Inconsistent or unresponsive parenting, on the other hand, will lead to “insecure attachments”, which often results in clinginess, withdrawal, and difficulty in managing emotions. 

Many parents see a prompt response as a way of spoiling a baby, or setting unrealistic expectations. The opposite is true; it teaches a child that they are in a safe environment, and that they have secure and predictable routines. 

First, the child will heavily rely on you for calming and positive emotions. Over time, they will internalize these skills. This secure attachment leads to children having the safety to be more independent, increases levels of empathy, and social confidence. 

Practical Strategies

Let’s go beyond the theoretical and give you some actionable, practical strategies for parents: 

• Immediate responsiveness: Try to respond promptly to crying and distress signals, especially during the child’s first months.
• Eye contact during care: Simple one, but easy to forget, too. During feeding, diaper changes, and play time, make eye contact.
• Skin-to-skin contact: Introduce regular cuddling, massage, and bare-chest holding when possible. 
• Talk and sing: Your baby takes it all in, even if they can’t yet respond. Talk, sing, have deep conversations! 
• Follow baby’s cues: Learn to read your baby’s cues, including those for hunger, tiredness, and overstimulation signals. 
• Create routines: Establish predictable patterns for feeding, sleeping, and play. 
• Gentle handling: Use slow, calm movements during caregiving tasks. 

Don’t Seek Perfection, Just Be Present Instead

The seeds of emotional health are planted in a baby’s earliest days through love, touch, and by being there. Quiet, tender moments of bonding help construct a child’s emotional well-being in later life, shaping how they will feel, connect, and grow in their relationships. 

With patience, an understanding that there is no perfect blueprint, and mutual support from your close ones, every parent can lay the foundation for a thriving emotional future. Remember, just being emotionally available, even giving a child a quick but loving hug, these are all simple but key parts of the journey.