What Can I Do From the Beginning?

Start with the basics

Your baby's earliest experiences help shape how they learn about themselves, other people and the world around them.

You can help build a strong foundation by:

Being responsive
Notice your baby's needs and respond with comfort, attention and care.

Building connection
Talk, listen, cuddle, smile and spend time together.

Creating routines
Simple, predictable routines can help your baby know what to expect.

Providing a safe environment
Give your baby a safe place to sleep, play and grow.

Taking care of yourself
Your well-being matters, too. Getting support is part of being a strong parent.

You’re already doing more than you think

There are a lot of books, apps, classes and advice telling new parents what they should be doing.

But prevention doesn't have to mean adding another thing to your to-do list.

It can look like:

• Holding your baby when they need comfort.
• Talking to them during a diaper change.
• Reading a book before bed.
• Creating a predictable bedtime routine.
• Asking for help when you need it.
• Taking a few minutes to breathe when things feel overwhelming.
• Being present when you can.

The ordinary moments are the important moments.

Build protective factors from the beginning

Why build protective factors early?

The early years help lay the foundation for how children learn, grow and handle challenges. Protective factors are the relationships, skills and supports that help children feel safe, connected and able to cope with stress.

Building these strengths from the beginning can help your child develop resilience and skills they can use as they grow. You don't have to do everything perfectly. Small, everyday moments of connection, care and support add up over time.

What helps babies thrive?

Connection
Your baby needs caring, responsive relationships. Talking, holding, smiling and responding to your baby's needs all help build connection.

Safety
A safe and predictable environment helps babies feel secure and gives them a strong foundation for exploring and learning.

Consistency
Simple routines and reliable care help babies know what to expect and build a sense of security.

Healthy relationships
Your baby's relationships with you and other caring adults matter. Positive relationships help children learn how to trust, communicate and build relationships with others.

Support
Parents aren't meant to do this alone. Friends, family and other trusted adults can provide support for you and your baby.

Healthy caregivers
Taking care of your own mental and emotional well-being is part of taking care of your baby. When you have support and take care of yourself, you're better able to be there for your child.

These small moments help your baby learn: “I am safe. I am loved. I matter.”

Talking & Connecting With Your Baby.

Build your village

You weren't meant to do this alone.

Think about the people who can be part of your baby's support system.

That might be:

• A partner or co-parent
• Grandparents
• Family members
• Friends
• Child care providers
• Health care providers
• Community or faith organizations
• Other parents

Asking for help isn't a sign that you're struggling as a parent. It's one way you're taking care of your family.

CTA: Find support in your community

Take care of you, too

Your baby needs a parent—not a perfect parent.

Having a new baby can bring joy, stress, exhaustion and a lot of change. Give yourself permission to learn as you go.

Try to:

• Rest when you can.
• Accept help.
• Make time for basic needs like eating and showering.
• Talk with someone you trust.
• Get outside or take a short break when possible.
• Talk with a health care provider if you're having a hard time coping.

Taking care of yourself isn't selfish. It's part of caring for your baby.

Supporting Your Own Mental Health