5 Things Moms Should Do From Birth to Raise a Happy, Healthy, and Confident Child

While some people believe that newborns have little to no awareness or understanding, research has shown that even at this early stage, infants have physiological and emotional needs that must be met. This is a critical period for development, and the emotions of those around them play a significant role in shaping their personalities.

According to experts, there are several measures parents should take from infancy to raise a happy and confident child.

Nutrition and Play: Foundations for Emotional Stability

It is crucial to ensure that infants get enough sleep, proper nutrition, and attentive care. Most of their crying spells stem from unmet basic needs. When babies are well-rested, well-nourished, and comfortable, they tend to express happiness and contentment.

As for play, engaging toys and games can fulfill their entertainment needs. Playing is one of the most effective ways to bring joy to children.

Parents should join their children in age-appropriate play, enriching their daily experiences.

Additionally, teaching young children some social skills is essential. For instance, mothers can take their infants outdoors to interact with trustworthy and friendly strangers. Connecting with peers will also aid in their communication skills and relationship-building.

Cuddling and Touch: Promoting Emotional Stability and Confidence

According to a study by American psychologist Spitz, a lack of human care in daycare settings, relying solely on machines for feeding, can severely impact children’s physical and mental development.

This study underscores the importance of human interaction and care in facilitating holistic development. Children who are deprived of emotional attention and care may feel lonely and struggle to form social relationships as they grow up.

Physical touch not only meets their psychological needs but also plays a vital role in their emotional development and the formation of personal relationships.

Warm hugs, gentle handholds, and kisses from parents are not just displays of affection but also means to help infants understand themselves and their surroundings. These actions foster a sense of love, safety, and protection.

When enveloped in their parents’ warm embrace, children feel more robust and confident in their emotions.

Maternal Bond: A Baby’s Deep Love for Their Mother

From the earliest days after birth, newborns form a unique connection with their mothers. The warmth of her embrace, the sweetness of her milk, her gentle smile, and caresses create a sense of comfort and satisfaction for the child. When a mother playfully teases, the baby quickly responds with a smile.

This joyful emotion contributes to building a strong bond between mother and child, making the baby feel secure and happy. This connection lays the foundation for the child’s positive emotional development.

Moreover, a mother’s mood significantly impacts her infant. An anxious mother may inadvertently foster an insecure baby.

Therefore, it is essential for mothers to be mindful of their negative emotions and ensure they do not adversely affect their child’s growth.

Harmonious Family Relationships: Building Trust and Sharing Positive Emotions

Even at a very young age, children are sensitive to the atmosphere between their parents. Emotional development in children usually progresses from the inside out.

Parents and family members are the first people children interact with, and they learn and emulate their behaviors.

A happy and harmonious family environment not only helps children build trust but also encourages the expression of positive emotions, laying a solid foundation for future relationships.

In life, work pressures, family disputes, and challenges in raising children are inevitable.

However, it is crucial not to let the stress from these issues directly affect the children. Refrain from arguing or taking out frustrations on them. Instead, family members should maintain a respectful and understanding attitude and strive to resolve conflicts peacefully. This not only makes children feel more comfortable but also teaches them how to manage stress in their later lives.

Responding to a Baby’s Cries: Respecting Their Emotions

Listening to a baby’s cries is not just about tending to their basic needs like feeding but also demonstrates consideration for their emotions. Sometimes, infants cry without an apparent reason, and in such cases, some parents may become indifferent or ignore their child’s tears.

This can have negative consequences. Parents need to recognize that indifference may lead to a sense of insecurity in children, resulting in irritability, anxiety, and fear. These emotional states not only affect their current mood but also hinder stable emotional development and the formation of a healthy personality in the future.

When a baby cries without a clear cause, they may be seeking spiritual solace.

While parents don’t have to immediately fulfill every request, a timely and caring response is crucial, making the child feel secure and loved.

Gentle hugs or sincere words of comfort act like precious “emotional medicine.” They help children understand that their emotions are valued and nurtured.