Attachment & Relationships | City of Hamilton

Father holding baby in the air with trees in the background.

Parenting Supports

Supporting social and emotional well-being for babies, toddlers, and children under six

Want to learn more or have questions about your child's mental health?

Call Health Connections Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm to talk with a public health nurse.

Attachment is the bond between you and your child. You can strengthen your attachment by responding to your child’s needs. It is especially important to respond when your child is sad, sick, scared or hurt.

As your child grows, you can continue to build your relationship. You can do this by spending time together, giving your child attention, showing your child love, and continuing to respond to their needs.

Importance of Relationships

Safe, stable, and loving relationships help your child:

feel safe to learn and explore
feel loved and cared for
learn how to get along with others, have healthy relationships and manage their emotions
find healthy ways to cope with challenges

Baby 0-1 year

Notice & respond to your baby's cues like crying, laughing, and babbles
Sing, read, smile, & cuddle with your baby
Encourage safe exploration by staying close, having fun, and helping when needed

Toddler 1-3 years

Notice your toddler’s cues and respond to their needs
Offer options to build confidence and independence
Use routines and everyday tasks to connect
Do things together that your toddler likes

Child 3-6 years

Be aware of your child’s needs. Listen and respond when they tell you what they need
Listen, talk, and teach about feelings and emotions
Play, read, and connect
Let your child choose how you spend time together

Baby 0-1 year

Copy the faces your baby makes and see how they respond
Have cuddling time every day
Get on your baby’s level and talk to them about what you can see
Sing songs

Toddler 1-3 years

Show interest in your toddler’s favourite toys and play imaginary games
Take a nature walk
Have story-telling time where you each make up stories. Use household items as props, for example a spoon can be a magic wand.

Child 3-6 years

Build a fort out of pillows with your child
Show affection with hugs, high-fives and positive praise
Print out a feelings wheel and talk to your child about what they would do if they had different feelings
Collect things you find outside in nature and make art with it.

Community Resources

Places you can go to connect with your child

Learn more about attachment and relationships

Ask questions about attachment and relationships

Ask a Professional at your local EarlyON
Health Connections Call 905-546-3550
Healthy Families Hamilton Facebook page
Your family doctor

Date modified

March 28, 2025