Attachment parenting is the philosophy and practice of parenting methods that foster strong, healthy emotional bonds between parents and children.

This approach values responsiveness to the infant or child's physical and emotional needs, nurturing their trust that those needs will be met. Securely attached children develop secure, empathic, peaceful and enduring relationships throughout their lives.

Attachment parenting isn't "new". It is in many ways a return to the parenting methods of our ancestors. Some people would describe it as a natural or intuitive parenting style. In the last 60 years, the behaviors of attachment parenting have been studied extensively by psychology and child development researchers, and more recently, by researchers studying the brain. This body of knowledge offers strong support for areas that are key to the optimal development of children, summarized and promoted by API's 8 Principles of Attachment Parenting.

The 8 Principles of Attachment Parenting

1. Prepare for Pregnancy, Birth, and Parenting

2. Feed with Love and Respect

3. Respond with Sensitivity

4. Use Nurturing Touch

5. Engage in Nighttime Parenting

6. Provide Consistent and Loving Care

7. Practice Positive Discipline

8. Strive for Balance in Personal and Family Life