If you’re looking for a primer on attachment parenting, visit Attachment Parenting International (API), and read API’s Eight Principles of Parenting.

These eight principles focus on key areas that promote attachment parenting. Attachment parenting isn’t a huge stretch as some people think.

In many ways attachment parenting is what many parents do instinctively, if they’re not surrounded (bombarded) by parenting books and advice from family and friend. In many places (besides Europe and the U.S) attachment parenting is simply a way of life – better for babies and families.

The basics of attachment parenting:

1. Prepare for pregnancy, labor, birth, and parenting
2. Breastfeed or bottle nurse
3. Build trust and empathy with your baby
4. Use a gentle touch
5. Co-sleep
6. Provide consistent and loving care
7. Use only positive discipline
8. Strive for family balance

Each of the above key points is discussed further at API.

Does your family practice attachment parenting? Does it work well for you and your family?