The term "attachment parenting" was coined by American pediatrician William Sears. It's essentially an entire philosophy based on closeness with a child as the primary value of their upbringing. The doctor believes that emotionally available parents, sensitive to their individual needs, foster a sense of security and, consequently, happiness in their future, adult life.
Close parenting models rely primarily on intuition, far from modern, coaching-based parenting methods that attempt to present parents with universal laws, as if every child develops at a similar pace and has exactly the same needs. A bond with a child based on closeness, unconditional trust, and love builds an emotionally mature approach to interpersonal relationships and, above all, self-confidence.
The most important principles of attachment parenting
How to raise a child according to the principles of attachment parenting. Here are the 8 most important principles.
1. Consciously prepare for pregnancy, childbirth and your new role as a parent.
2. Show love and respect to your child.
3. Be sensitive to his needs and emotions.
4. Give him as much touch as possible (breastfeed, cuddle, carry him in a sling, etc.).
5. Ensure your little one sleeps safely.
6. If you introduce discipline, make sure it is based on positive messages.
7. Provide your child with constant and reliable care.
8. Maintain a balance between your personal and family life.
The pillars ensuring closeness between a child and a parent are based on natural instincts and hormones (increase in oxytocin, vasopressin, serotonin, and decrease in cortisol) that are released in the body of both the baby and the mother and father during loving care.
Attachment parenting debunks the myth about baby crying. It's not a way to strengthen a baby's lungs, but a natural reaction to not having one of their basic needs met, which a conscious parent should address.
Attachment Parenting - This Might Be Useful
To build a relationship based on attachment parenting, you don't need to buy countless toys and other items. What matters most is the emotional bond, direct skin-to-skin contact, empathy, and tenderness. However, the following may be helpful:
- a book on attachment parenting by W. and M. Sears,
- a wrap for carrying a baby close to the body,
- comfortable breastfeeding pillow ,
- guides on family life and building healthy relationships.
