What to do:

Spend plenty of time cuddling and holding your baby close. During feeding, dressing and bathing, talk, sing or hum softly. If your baby cries and isn’t hungry or wet, try swaddling, rocking, singing or taking them for a walk outdoors to help them calm.

How it helps:

Close physical contact provides comfort and security, strengthens attachment and helps regulate your baby’s emotions. Responding to cries builds trust and teaches your baby that you will meet their needs.

Tip for mom:

Practice skin‑to‑skin contact when possible; this helps regulate your baby’s temperature and heartbeat. Vary soothing techniques—sometimes gentle rocking works, other times a soft song or outdoor stroll is best. Take breaks if you feel overwhelmed and ask for support.

Goal:

Emotional connection + social‑emotional regulation.

Developmental domains affected:

1. Social‑emotional (attachment, soothing)
2. Physical (touch and skin‑to‑skin contact)
3. Cognitive (learning to calm), Language (listening to voice).

Activity level: Low.

Place: Indoor or outdoors on a stroll.

Best for styles:

1. Feeler (enjoys touch)
2. Talker (hears soothing sounds)
3. Mover (being rocked)