Parents today have a lot on their plates. Juggling the demands
of work, home, and other responsibilities leaves many parents
feeling like they do not have enough time with their children.
But even small acts of kindness, protection, and caring—a hug, a
kiss, or a smile—make a big difference to children. Research
shows that babies who receive affection and nurturing from their
parents have the best chance of developing into children, teens,
and adults who are happy, healthy, and competent. Research also
shows that a relationship with a consistent, caring adult in the
early years is associated in later life with better academic
grades, healthier behaviors, more positive peer interactions,
and an increased ability to cope with stress. Brain development
in infants is positively affected when parents work to
understand and meet their basic needs for love and affection or
provide comfort when they are hungry, bored, tired, wet, or
cold. Conversely, neglectful and abusive parenting can have a
negative effect on brai