Safety

I just finished reading an article called The Science of Attachment about attachment theory and bonding. "Attachment theory is based on the belief that the mother-child bond is the essential and primary force in infant development, and thus forms the basis of coping, negotiation of relationships, and personality development." From the moment I found out I was pregnant,  I felt this primal instinct to protect my little baby. I changed my diet, cut out caffeine, stopped smoking immediately, started yoga, and did everything I could to make sure that I was healthy and in turn making sure my baby was healthy. Before his birth, I knew that I wanted Elliott to remain close to me at all times while we were in the hospital and made this a very important part of my birth plan. And for these first 11 weeks, I have done my best to keep Elliott close to me, adopting an attached parenting lifestyle. My instincts just told me that this was the right thing to do. I love being able to keep him safe and help him feel safe by carrying him close to me in a sling or wrap, breastfeeding him on demand, and co-sleeping with him. I love the feeling it gives me to care for him and meet his needs, providing him with the foundation for a healthy and safe lifestyle.