Guidance on a healthy relationship between an infant and his mother.

A secure bond between a mother and infant

 lies at the heart of lifelong health.

  The mother-infant bond is the most enduring emotional relationship known to mankind, which sets foundation for our future relationships and emotions. Such a relationship is essential for the immediate health of this most vulnerable part of human life, but it is also necessary to prevent serious long-term mental and physical illnesses. Taking care to foster that relationship can make a world of difference in the child's well being down the road.

THE ORIGINAL RELATIONSHIP BOOKAttachment Theory.

  First seen in the work of psychologist John Bowlby, a founder of attachment theory which highlights this crucial initial attachment between mother and baby. This can be a cause of the bond, or attachment is created through consistent and responsive caregiving. The theory is that a loving and secure attachment with the mother leads to a 'secure base' from which infant can safely explore its environment. Once secured in that base, a child learns confidence to explore their world and trust the same at other places.

Responsiveness and Sensitivity.

  The mother-infant relationship is healthiest when a mother responds to her infants cues. This involves not only identifying but also responding to baby cries, gestures and expressions in the right manner. Responding with sensitivity to an infant — meaning you are aware of and willing to meet their needs as necessary — fosters a sense in the baby that they can trust their caregiver. Studies have found that this responsiveness helps give infants healthy emotional development, improved social skills and a better cognitive foundation.