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Taking time out each day to think about them, talk to them, even sing, read or play music to them can help to create a connection between you before they even arrive. Dads-to-be or anyone else who will play an important role in baby’s life might wish to do this too. Bonding with your baby before birth is just the start of the process which leads straight into bonding with them after they are born – perhaps with skin to skin contact with mum. Whichever method of feeding you choose, feeding your baby is an opportunity for a mother to take time to focus on baby, make eye contact with them, and to have some quiet time together.
Breastfeeding offers the perfect opportunity for bonding as it requires you to hold your baby in very close contact with you. You will also release oxytocin, the love hormone, as you breastfeed which will help the bonding process. If breastfeeding is not your choice, or you are unable to breastfeed, this website offers suggestions for how you can maximise bonding with your baby while you bottle feed.