Skip to main content

Bonding with your baby

Healthy development of your baby begins during the first 2 years of their life.

From the moment your baby is born, and even during pregnancy, your interactions with them help them feel loved and secure.

The way you care for your baby, and the experiences you have together, really do matter.

Building a close relationship with your baby

Your baby's early experiences shape their development. Find out how to build a strong relationship with your baby to help give them the best start in life.

Understanding your baby

Babies don't come with a manual, but they try hard to be understood. Read the 6 ‘baby states’ that can help you understand what your baby might need.

As they get older

Help your toddler with their emotions

How you interact with and support your toddler as they get older helps them to manage their big feelings.

Find support at Family hubs

Family hubs offer support to babies, children, young people and their families. They provide a single place to go for support and information from a variety of organisations, making it easier to get the support you need.

They can provide guidance on issues such as building your relationship with your baby, mental health, feeding your baby or toddler and parenting support.

Family Hubs are currently operating in 75 local authorities across England.

Find out if there's a family hub in your local area on gov.uk

Sign up for emails

Our emails include NHS trusted advice and support, tailored to your stage of pregnancy or baby's age.

Sign up for emails