When Memphis police officers answered a complaint call about loud crying babies, they could hear them as soon as they got out of their patrol car.
For almost a decade, my work at The Urban Child Institute has involved extensive research on early childhood development, from the importance of prenatal care to the benefits of shared book reading for kindergarten readiness, and just about everything in between.
As parents, we have a host of tools at our disposal to help us navigate the important early years of our children’s lives. We have parenting books, magazine articles, online guides, and even smart phone apps for some tasks. In addition, we have a network of pediatricians, teachers and fellow parents to share knowledge and advice.
Just like Barry White said in his 1974 hit, babies "Can't get enough of your love." The more attention and affection your infant receives, the more likely he is to grow into a well-adjusted child and adult. In order to reach his potential, he needs all the love you can give him.
Attachment parenting is a polarizing phrase, conjuring in some the image of buzzing helicopter parents hovering oppressively over their children, and in others an image of benevolent, selfless parents dedicated to cultivating the perfect human adult.
Attachment is your baby’s feeling of safety and her assurance that you are available to meet her needs. Attachment is a crucial element of her early development and is an important predictor of her later social adjustment. A secure attachment to her closest caregivers helps your baby deal with distressing situations, strange environments, and perceived threats.