One of the most important cornerstones in the healthy development of babies is **the sense of basic trust (self-confidence development)**. If a baby is given love, attention, and trust from the first months of life, this contributes to the development of a **self-confident, social, and strong personality** in later years.
According to developmental psychologists, children who form a strong bond of trust during infancy:
- Socialize more easily
- Form friendships more quickly
- Express themselves more comfortably
So, how can parents build this sense of trust? Here is a **guide for new parents**:
1. Trust Your Instincts (Parental Intuition)
Always respond to your baby's needs.
Contrary to popular belief:
“Picking up a baby every time they cry spoils them” → False
Babies do not cry consciously in the first few months.
Babies cry because:
- They are hungry
- They have gas pain
- They are scared
2. Touch Is Very Important (Skin-to-Skin Contact)
You don't have to constantly hold your baby. Even small touches are enough:
- Holding their hand while they sleep
- Stroking their cheek
- Gently touching their chest
✔️ **Skin-to-skin contact** immediately after birth is very important.
✔️ Both mother and father should form a physical bond with the baby.
3. Do Not Leave Your Baby Alone
Especially when they cry, be there for them.
Babies want to feel the same secure environment in the outside world as they did in the womb.
❗ Allowing them to cry for a long time:
- Can damage their sense of trust.
4. Respond to Their Expressions
Your baby communicates with you:
- Respond when they smile
- Soothe them if they are sad
This interaction is critically important for emotional development.
5. Express Your Love Through Words Too
Babies start to understand earlier than you think.
Don't hesitate to tell them:
- “I love you”
- “I am here for you”
- “I am protecting you”
This allows them to learn about emotions through language.
6. Create Daily Routines
Repetitive routines give babies a sense of security. For example:
- Reading a bedtime story
- Singing a lullaby
- Applying lotion every evening
These habits help the baby feel secure.