Mental heath in adulthood starts in infancy. The first 3 years of a baby’s life set the stage for their mental health, and physical health, for the rest of their lives.

For over a century now mothers and parents have been taught low nurture practices such as sleep training, crying it out, detachment (e.g. don’t pick up your baby all the time), separation while the baby is still too young to be away from the mother (daycare, nannies, etc.). We are now facing the worst mental health crisis ever.

Neuroscientists have now proven that high nurture practices in infancy (0-3 years) such as bedsharing, affectionate touch, constant connection with the baby throughout the day, talking to them and responding to their babbles, baby wearing, eye contact, etc. create safe attachment, activate healthy gene expression and create a basis for strong mental and physical health in adulthood.

Mental health of mothers also benefits from high nurture, as it lowers anxiety and reduces the chances of other problems.

High (even extravagant) nurture is the best thing you can do for your baby and yourself.