Attachment
Having a secure attachment with your child is a key factor in promoting their positive mental health. A child has a secure attachment with their caregiver when they feel safe, cared for, and protected. Secure attachment happens when a child can rely on their caregiver to meet their needs.
Tips to form secure attachment:
- Comfort your child when they are sick, hurt or upset.
- Be warm and sensitive towards your child's needs.
- Talk, listen and respond to your child.
- Play with your child. Focus your attention on them.
- Praise your child every day. Tell them you love them.
- Role model healthy relationships.
- Let your child know when there are changes in the routine. This will make them feel safe because they know what to expect.
- When you will be apart, talk to your child about when you will be back. Saying things like "I'll see you after school" or "I'll see you tomorrow" reduces anxiety.
- Talk to them about their day, thoughts and feelings. Let them know you are there to listen and support them.
Do you have more questions about parenting?
- Speak with a Public Health Nurse. Call the Ottawa Public Health Info Centre at 613-PARENTS [613-727-3687] (TTY: 613-580-9656) or email Ottawa Public Health at ParentinginOttawa@ottawa.ca
- Connect with a Public Health Nurse and other parents on the Parenting in Ottawa Facebook page
- There are a variety of services to make it easier for your child to grow up healthy in Ottawa
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