Infancy: Setting the Stage for Toddlerhood

Toddlerhood doesn’t have to be about tricks, manipulation and just surviving. There is another way, and it all starts in infancy. 

The way we treat our infants and the way we build a relationship with them will influence the type of relationship we have in toddlerhood when things start to shift. Fostering a relationship that is built on mutual trust and respect doesn’t mean you and your toddler will always agree, but it does mean that even when things get rocky, you will have a strong relationship to fall back on and you can problem-solve difficult situations together, continuing to build that trust and respect. 

Taking your infant’s perspective can go a long way in setting yourself up for a strong parent-child relationship.  Utilize caregiving moments to slow down and build a connection.  Adults are quick to rush through the mundane moments, but these daily routines make up your child’s life for the first few years and it all has a significant impact on the wiring of their brains.  

As you change diapers, wash little bodies and nourish tiny bellies, think about the experience from your baby’s point of view and consider how you would feel if you were in his/her shoes.