Re: I’ve heard nursing helps moms and babies bond, but I’m not breastfeeding. Are there any ways to connect with my baby while I give her a bottle?
Absolutely. Here are some ways to make bottle-time a warm and fuzzy experience for both of you.
•Don’t multi-task. Give baby your full attention while she feeds, and don't rush her to finish. Let her enjoy the pleasures of snuggling with her favorite person... And let yourself savor this precious time, too.
•Get close. If you’re in private, take off or unbutton your shirt -- babies love that skin-to-skin connection. Also, try to maintain eye contact. (As if you could take your eyes off her!) Physical and visual connections are linked to optimum brain development.
•Switch midway. Move baby to your other arm halfway through the bottle. Giving her a different perspective on the world provides visual stimulation and encourages development and curiosity... and, it gives your shoulder a break.
•Don’t prop. It may save you a few minutes, but propping baby up with a bottle costs you valuable bonding time. It also increases her risk of choking, ear infections and tooth decay.
•Share these tips with your mate so he can also make the most of bottle-time.
Paula Kashtan