Baby Knows Best By Family Resource Centers, Inc.

Our bond started right after being born. Imagine being all warm and snug one minute, then before you know it, you have entered a whole new world with quite a different climate. We were then placed onto our mommy's chest and heard the soothing heartbeat again. It was then that we would realize who the really important people in our lives would be. Our love for you is based on the fact that we know you are essential to our survival. From this moment on, we as babies begin to count on your nurturing. Our birth is actually our first separation from you, but many more are to come.

At first, we babies are content with anyone who may be nurturing and loving to us. By the time we are six months old, we've had it. Any stranger can cause anxiety. We miss mommy and daddy and want them next to us at all times. We seek more attention and extra cuddling. Mommy is the only person who really is able to soothe us. Her gentle reassurance helps us understand that strangers eventually become sisters, brothers, aunts and uncles. With mommy by our side, affirming the bonding, curiosity takes hold and drives us out into the world to seek our identity. Then, suddenly it seems, we notice that there are times when you have to be away from us -- even at times when it seems we need you most, you disappear. While yes, it may be because there are things you need to do: the laundry, cook dinner, clean, still we need you too. It is upsetting when you leave.

So, I try to bring order to the chaotic world of adults. Mommy's routines reassure me that everything's going to be alright. In other words, "don't worry, be happy". Everything eventually begins to make sense. Mommy going away does not have to become a feared thing. It only makes me stronger to explore my environment.

Peek-a-boo becomes one of our most favorite games to play. We absolutely love it. It's as if to tease us about the excitements of independence to come.

If any of you moms and dads have questions, please E-mail us at : FRC 201@ AOL.com