New Mom? Is Attachment Parenting for You?

New moms often find themselves in a whirlwind of thoughts pertaining to the multiple "parenting styles" that are out there today. One that has receive much attention in recent years is attachment parenting. Maybe you have heard of it, or natural parenting, but do you know what it really means? If not, hopefully this information will give you a basic understanding of it, and enable you to make a better decision as to whether you should embark on this type of parenting.

Attachment parenting is basically believing that your little one is doing their best, and has good intentions even through the worst of times. It is treating them the way you may have wished you were treated when you were a child. Compassion, patience, and love typically replace your common disciplinary actions, elevated temperaments, and anger. You understand that they can't be perfect all of the time, even when they know the rules, and that they have to be taught with love in order learn those rules.

In order to fully encompass the attachment parenting style, you should begin not only from the birth of your little one, but even as far back as pregnancy. Learning about, and realizing all that attachment parenting entails begins with creating a safe and loving environment that they will be born into. After their arrival, breastfeeding is an important first step to developing the love filled bond that you build on. Spending much time with them next to you is just as pertinent, which can be done in a variety of ways. You can use a sling to keep them close throughout the day (which can also make breastfeeding easier at times), spending time with skin to skin contact, or safely having them sleep with you (There are suggested methods for doing this safely which you can find here and here).

As a new mother, no one can tell you what is right or wrong for your situation, so don’t let anyone try to bully you into conforming to something you don’t feel comfortable with. However, different styles should at least be read about and considered in order to find the perfect path for you.

*photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/metrosupialdesigns/489736000/