17/07/2026
The importance of early bonding on the long-term mental health and resilience of children
"Imagine if the hugs, lullabies and smiles from parents could inoculate babies against heartbreak, adolescent angst and even help them pass their exams decades later. Well, evidence from the new branch of science called epigenetics is reporting that this long-term emotional inoculation might be possible." - wrote parent researchers Robert Winston and Rebecca Chicot on the science of epigentics and parenting.
To be clear, we can't avoid 100% of difficulties or mental health struggles. However, resarch does support that early, strong bonds with primary caregivers increases resiliency and can be protective against *some* mental health challenges.
"A 2012 study by the Essential Parent Company showed that around 80% of new parents felt both anxious and completely unprepared with the practical skills they need to look after their new baby."
Several generations ago, many parents learned to parent from village style and extended family living and support. They knew what to expect with newborns and young infants. There was understanding of infant feeding, postpartum healing, and raising children wasn't done in isolation.
In more recent generations, new parents often have little to no experience with newborns, breastfeeding, bonding with infants, etc., until they have their own children.
So, from a public health perspective, what do we do?
We encourage more prenatal education. Increase social supports and new parent support groups. We raise awareness about the importance of and HOW to bond with infants, even when they're in a difficult stage of frequent feeds and little sleep.
For doulas, lactation professionals, and childbirth educators, it's important to provide holistic support and education that focuses not just on specific outcomes but rather healthy infant bonding and realistic expectations.
👇🏽 What do you think about the power of early parenting?
