Nurturing care starts before birth, when mothers and other caregivers can start talking and singing to the foetus.
After birth, the baby can recognize the mother’s voice. Early bonding is facilitated by skin-to-skin contact, breastfeeding and the presence of a companion to support the baby mother. These also build the foundations for optimal nutrition, quality interactions and care.
Soon after birth, babies respond to faces, gentle touch and holding, as well as the soothing sound of baby talk. Caregivers soon learn to appreciate how babies respond to them, which is essential for the optimal development of the baby’s brain.
Starting from the first months, quality time with the baby – including smiling, touching, talking, storytelling, listening to music, sharing and reading books, and engaging in play – builds neural connections that strengthen the child’s brain.
