The goal of attachment parenting is to raise children who are able to regulate their emotions and form healthy, emotional connections with other people throughout their life. This is achieved by forming a respectful, compassionate connection between a parent and child.
Practices Associated
Attachment parenting is not a ‘tick box’ thing.
That said, there are many practices associated with attachment parenting that are thought to increase the bond between a parent and child – creating a secure attachment – and thereby allowing a future of secure relationships and a strong sense of self.
Examples include:
– Breastfeeding for healthy physical, emotional, and mental development.
– Babywearing/carrying with a focus on the importance of carrying a baby in your arms as much as possible. Slings and carriers (used on the front of the body) are used regularly.
– Avoiding strictly-timed, adult-imposed feeding schedules / ‘feeding on demand’
– Nurturing touch (including skin-to-skin contact for infants)
– Always being responsive to a baby’s cries
– Being sensitive and responsive to a child’s emotions
– Co-sleeping
Attachment parenting is not about the practices, specifically, but about the approach, which is peaceful and puts emphasis on connecting with a child on a deep emotional level.
Recognising a Child’s Agency
Attachment parenting involves recognising children’s agency, treating children with kindness and with respect, encourage a strong sense of self.
Consistency in care is important. Parents are a joint force in parenting and unite in their parenting practices.
Attachment Parenting Criticism
Many believe that attachment parenting is ‘too demanding’ on the parents and could be mentally, emotionally, and physically draining. Feminist critiques may say that too much lands with the mother. There is little research available to support or refute this ideas.
Co-sleeping is contentious, more generally, because of its potential relationship to SIDs.
