Bonding is the intense attachment that develops between you and your baby; that overwhelming feeling that makes you want to shower them with love and affection.
It's a key factor in your baby's development and provides their first intimate relationship, promoting a sense of security and positive self-esteem. For some parents, this feeling develops within the first few days, or even minutes, of birth. But for others, it may take a little longer.
When a baby is born, it's generally mum who has the most opportunities for bonding; whether theirs is the first skin that baby lies close to after birth, or through breastfeeding. However, there are many ways for dads to bond with their baby too.How Can Mum and Dad Bond with Baby?Skin-to-skin contact is one of the best - and easiest - things you can do. It's believed that physical contact reduces stress and boosts feelings of wellbeing, for parents and babies alike. And it's something that both parents can do. Take turns to lay your baby on your bare chest, blow raspberries and tickle their tummy. Or try sharing a bath - it's reassuring for your baby to have you there and great for bonding.
One of the best ways for both parents to bond with their baby, however, is swimming. As you hold them close in the pool, much of your skin is in contact with theirs. Babies love being in water and swimming from birth is entirely natural. After all, they've just spent nine months in the womb!Are there benefits to swimming rather than just bathing with baby?Swimming with your baby is one of the most memorable, thrilling and bonding experiences the two of you can share. Time in the pool can be special for you both as you can give your baby undivided attention whilst having fun together.
As well as teaching them a life-skill, swimming is also great for their physical and mental development. Not only does it make them fitter and stronger, helping them to eat and sleep better, but movement has crucial neurological benefits. The first year of life is a time when the brain grows the most rapidly; with every action stimulating its growth, strengthening nerve fibres and making it function more efficiently.
New parents also find swimming is the perfect way to socialise and make new friends. And choosing to join a structured baby swimming course, like those offered by Water Babies, can help relieve any anxiety you might have about your first visit to the pool.
Weekly lessons provide a ring-fenced time where you can focus on the joy of being with your baby, learning and experiencing new things together, whilst a qualified professional gently guides you. The key objective of these classes is to teach you how to teach your baby to swim, as soon as they are able. Throughout the weeks you'll always be with your child in the water, creating an excellent opportunity for you to interact and bond. And don't be put off if you're unable to swim yourself as the water is always shallow enough for you to stand up.Difficulties Bonding with BabyThe time with your newborn is probably one of the most special in your life. But it's also a time that can, let's face it, be a bit of an emotional roller-coaster.
Whilst there is so much happiness surrounding a baby's birth, it's not always plain sailing and you may have some 'teething problems'. Postnatal depression is certainly one of the most significant, with statistics suggesting it affects around one in ten new mums.
Ali Blakemore knows only too well the anguish this can cause. 'The 24/7 nature of motherhood was overwhelming,' she recalls. Luckily, Ali knew that postnatal depression is a treatable illness and eventually sought help from her GP. 'I also knew that I needed some social activities to aid my recovery and started Water Babies classes with Archie when he was just six months old. 'Right from the start he loved it, being a very active little boy. And soon we were both enjoying splashing around in the water together; I felt I was able to get to know him that much better as we were both so relaxed.'
For more information about your nearest Water Babies class visit www.waterbabies.co.uk or call 01404 548 348
Read more about taking your baby swimming.
June 2011 |
The Benefits of Baby Swimming
