Understanding your baby

Having a baby is exciting, but it can also feel tiring and confusing. Many parents worry about whether they are doing things “right”.

There is no one right way. Every baby is different.

Learning what your baby needs

Babies cannot talk, but they communicate in other ways.

From birth, your baby will show you how they feel and what they need.

Learning to notice and respond to these signals helps your baby feel loved, safe and understood.

Your baby’s early relationships help shape how they:

• feel about themselves
• trust other people
• learn and grow

When your baby feels safe and cared for, they are more able to:

• explore the world
• play and learn
• feel calm and settled

Information and support for you and your baby

In Leeds, the Infant Mental Health Service (IMHS) supports families to focus on the importance of relationships between babies, young children, and the people who care for them.

They provide useful information and tips on:

• Understanding your unborn baby including bonding and attachment in pregnancy (building a close, loving relationship with your baby), and building your baby’s brain
• Your baby and you including the importance of play, helping your baby make sense of their world and understanding feelings
• Understanding your baby including using a traffic light system to help you to understand when your baby wants your attention and when they need a rest.