The physical contact between a parent and their baby is of paramount importance.
- Touch is an essential form of communication between baby and parent.
- It promotes feelings of security and self-esteem.
- Parents should be aware of what the baby’s reaction to touch may mean.
Touch is more than just a physical sensation, it is a means of emotional connection and mutual understanding. From the first moments of life, touch becomes one of the most essential forms of communication and affection between parents and their children.
The benefits of touch for the baby
If psychological research all shows that physical contact is essential to a child’s development, it is because it nourishes their emotional, social and cognitive capacities. It reinforces the bond of attachment between the parental figure and the child, while promoting the feeling of security and contributing to the construction of a positive self-esteem.
Touch soothes the baby, reduces stress, promotes sleep, contributes to the development of his nervous system. It therefore plays a fundamental role in the overall growth of the child.
However, each child is unique and has touch preferences that may change over time. As parents, it’s important to be open and adaptable, to adjust your approach to your baby’s changing needs.
Knowing how to be attentive to the needs of your child
Each child reacts differently to touch with greater sensitivity for some than for others. Being attentive to your child’s needs allows you to better understand what he wants to tell you.
If he doesn’t seem to want to be touched, shows signs of embarrassment, fussiness, cries or turns away, it’s important to respect his need for space. This doesn’t mean he doesn’t want affection anymore, just that he needs a moment to calm down or rest. You can then pause and observe if he expresses a desire to resume contact later.
On the contrary, if he seems to seek physical contact by smiling, approaching or stretching out his arms, he probably wants to be comforted, hugged or carried.
In addition, you can learn to identify the times or circumstances in which your baby likes to be touched: some prefer cuddles and cuddles before falling asleep, during the bath or when they are restless. While others crave physical contact when faced with new experiences or stressful situations.
Find out more: “100 sensory activities with my child 0-6 years old” by Noémie d’Esclaibes.