It’s never too early to bond with your little one. Yes, even when your baby is still in the womb, you should go right ahead and initiate that conversation you’ve been waiting to have with your bundle of joy. Here’s why:
It’s all about knowing your baby
First things first: don’t be awkward! If it helps, sit down to have your first conversation with your baby in complete privacy, when no one else – not even your spouse – is around. As you get into the groove, it won’t sound so odd anymore. Settle back against the cushions and be prepared to begin a bond that will only strengthen over the years with your child.
Your voice and your baby
Did you know that on being born, a newborn can distinguish their mother’s voice from that of others? After extensive study, it’s believed that babies are listening and learning from the last few weeks of pregnancy itself, and not just at birth. So much so, babies are known to recognize the difference between their mother’s native language and a foreign language just hours after birth.
Additionally, hearing your voice gives your baby some much-needed comfort, both in the womb and also once the baby is born. When you speak to your baby (or croon a little lullaby!), you may notice that the baby responds differently – the baby may look up at you and try to make eye contact, or move its limbs in a little pattern. There could also be a slight alteration in the baby’s heart rate – but when it’s your voice, it’s all for the good! The slight decrease in activity could signify that the baby is now more relaxed and calmer than earlier. Be sure, therefore, to speak in a consistent tone of voice, and stay calm when speaking to the baby – even when the baby is unborn.
Studies have shown that speaking to your baby during pregnancy itself helps their social and emotional development. It also helps strengthen their memory. It is estimated that your baby may begin to react to sound at 24 weeks, although don’t be disappointed if it takes a week or two longer!
What you should talk to your baby about
Well, there’s nothing in particular that you need to speak to your baby about! Just talking to your little one in a soothing tone, even if you are just relating how your own day has been, will work wonders. After all, it’s all about you and your voice, and not so much the content. Switch things up – read out loud to the baby, even in utero. It could be your favouritebook or even the day’s news in the newspapers. You could also try reading a children’s book or sing a nursery rhyme! Remember that the baby will find your voice soothing, so it’s likely that they may settle down to listen to you and not move too much!
What next
Once your baby actually arrives, continue to build this precious bond. It is crucial for their development and how they perceive the world as they grow.
