by Kathleen Cuneo, Ph.D., parent coach and founder of Dinner Together
A child who is securely attached to his caregiver is a child who feels confident exploring the world stemming from his knowledge that his caregiver is a dependable, secure base available to provide comfort and soothing when needed. Creating a secure attachment relationship requires parents to be constantly balancing providing that secure base and encouraging exploration. Some things for parents to keep in mind:
- What your child needs from you varies continually based on their shifting moods and development.
- Learning to “read” and respond to your childʼs needs is the key to fostering secure attachment.
- Be willing to challenge your child and yourself with safe separations.