- Secure attachment fosters resilience, social skills, emotional regulation, and self-confidence, benefits that last into adulthood.
- Tips for building attachment:
- Be emotionally available—listen without judgment, provide a nurturing environment, and normalize emotions by sharing your own.
- Repair ruptures quickly—mistakes happen; acknowledging and addressing them strengthens trust and security.
- Be consistent—routines and reliability help children feel stable and develop responsibility later in life.
- Prioritize your own well-being—healthy sleep, nutrition, exercise, and hobbies not only help parents but also model good habits for children.
- Consistency and modeling self-care establish structure for both parent and child, strengthening attachment and promoting long-term well-being.
Parent-Child Secure Attachment
The number one need for children in their relationship with parents is a secure attachment—feeling safe, nurtured, and cared for.
Holly Gaspar, MEd, MPH, Community Health Improvement