Bonding happens during the first hours and days after birth when parents make a deep connection with their child.

Physical closeness can help form an emotional link and help your baby develop in other ways. Begin bonding by cradling and gently stroking your baby in different patterns. Another good technique is skin-to-skin contact (also called kangaroo care), where you hold your newborn against your own chest. This helps calm and soothe babies and regulate their heartbeat. It’s a good practice for moms or dads to do.

How to do skin-to-skin contact with your baby:

1.    Avoid using scented perfumes or lotions and stay away from cigarette smoke beforehand.

2.    Find a comfortable seat in a dimly-lit room. Wear a shirt that opens in the front. Lay your baby in just a diaper on your bare chest.

3.    Sit quietly, talk softly, hum, sing, or read aloud. Your baby may sleep during this time.