Attachment Parenting:
New Term, Ancient Methods
While the term attachment parenting (AP) came to be in the early 1990's, it is actually the oldest form of child rearing and practiced by most cultures around the world.
Physical Connection
Also called responsive or "in arms" - this style of parenting recognizes the strong bond babies have to their mothers and encourages physical contact between children and mothers until the children are ready to become more independent. You can find many of the tools parents use to achieve this closeness on the
natural parenting page.
They include breastfeeding, cosleeping,
babywearing
and limiting long periods physical separation for the first few years. Studies have shown this approach has a beneficial impact on a child's confidence and can make them more emotionally secure as they grow older. Tips for Moms Who Work It may sound like this style of parenting is just for stay at home moms, but working moms are finding ways to balance their desire or need to work with their desire to remain in close contact with their children. Solutions include working part-time, telecommuting, job sharing and taking babies to work when the environment is conducive. Work at home moms have more opportunities than ever to pursue their passions and paychecks without giving up so many of the moments that matter most. Read what this full-time working mom and advocate, Jennifer Scoby, has to say in her article Are You an Attachment Parent? found on AP International's website. "As far as I'm concerned you can practice most of the principles - babywearing, breastfeeding, cosleeping, limiting separations, etc. and still not be an attachment parent if you don't let yourself get emotionally attached to your baby or child. Or you can choose to practice almost none of these principles and still be an attachment parent if you do form a genuine emotional connection."
Emotional Connection
Any healthy relationship involves mutual respect, this includes the relationship you have with your children. It doesn't mean your child gets to tell you what to do, it does mean you do your best to understand how your child feels in all situations. Scoby says AP involves getting behind your child's eyes and seeing things from their perspective. As you do this you will understand your child's needs better, bridge communication gaps and have a deeper connection. All of this boils down to greater self-esteem for your child and greater confidence in your own parenting skills. Even as your child grows and develops his own preferences, you will continue to reap the benefits of the emotional connection and trust you have built through attachment parenting. Don't be surprised if your toddler turns into a pre-teen or young adult who still confides in and seeks advice from you for years to come.
Spiritual Connection
Finally, you don't need a book or expert to tell you about this topic, because it's really all about trusting your instincts and doing what you feel is best for your child.If you have faith that you (not school teachers, pediatricians, child psychologists and lawmakers) are the most equipped person on the planet to make decisions for your child, then you are in fact practicing this philosophy. Related Articles:
The Benefits of Baby Slings
How to Select the Right Baby Sling For You
Bond with Your Baby By Reading Books
Return from Attachment Parenting to Natural Parenting
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