Parents know how much their children love to be hugged. Psychologist John Bowlby, well-known research of the Attachment Theory, described this simple act of a parents’ expression of love for a child as a “lasting psychological connectedness between human beings”. It involves the exchange of comfort and care that makes a child feel safe and secure. Bowlby found that as securely attached children grow, they are better able to:

• Attain their full intellectual potential
• Sort out what they perceive and understand
• Think logically
• Develop a conscience
• Become self-reliant
• Cope with stress and frustration
• Handle fear and worry
• Develop future relationships
• Reduce jealousy

Bowlby’s extensive research revealed that the best way to achieve a strong attachment with a child is through bonding experiences like the act of holding, rocking, singing, feeding, gazing, or kissing. Factors are crucial to bonding include time together, face-to-face interaction, eye contact, physical proximity, touch and other primary sensory experiences such as small, sound and taste.

Scientists believe the most important factor in creating attachment is positive physical contact such as hugging, holding and rocking, which triggers neuro-chemical activities in the brain. These neuro-chemical activities lead to normal organization of brain systems which are responsible for attachment.

Of all the things a parent must do to take care of their children, bonding is the easiest, least expensive and most enjoyable. Bonding also makes the greatest impact on a child’s future happiness and success. All it takes is a simple hug.

Elaine Chia
Director
Mindchamps Preschool Pte Ltd