Your relationship with your baby is the way that you feel close and connected to them.

For some parents and carers, this may happen in pregnancy or soon after birth. For others, it can take some time for a bond to grow.

For dads and partners it might feel a little more difficult to bond with their unborn baby as they are not pregnant themselves.

Remember: There's no "right" way to bond. Some parents feel an instant connection, while others need more time - both are completely normal.

Babies in the womb are aware of sounds, touch and movement and can recognise familiar smells and sounds as soon as they are born, including your voice.

Stroking your partner’s bump, talking and singing to your baby and thinking about their future are all good for your unborn baby.

Developing this early relationship is the start of the lasting connection you'll share with your child.

These small moments of connection add up, making your baby's arrival into the world feel like meeting someone you're already getting to know.

Once your baby arrives there’s lots of things you can do to help build your bond

  • Making eye contact with your baby can help you bond. Newborn babies can see, but their vision is blurred. They can best focus on things that are close to them, such as your face
  • One of the key things you can do with your baby is hold them close and talk to them calmly, each day, as often as you can
  • Hold your baby as much as you can (in your arms or in a sling)
  • Giving your baby tummy time is a great way to have fun with them. Only do tummy time when your baby is awake and alert, and you are there to watch them
  • Playing simple games with your baby is a great way to get to know each other.

You cannot spoil a baby, with ‘too much’ cuddling - it is what they need.