Introduction to ‘Physical wellbeing’
In this sprint you will develop the following knowledge:
- I understand that the mental and physical wellbeing of all parents and caregivers are important for the baby’s healthy development.
- I can talk with parents about the psychological factors in adjustment to pregnancy.
- I understand that responding to a baby’s distress and crying is important and that giving babies the attention they need, gives them the foundation to grow emotionally, physically, and intellectually (contrary to popular belief you can’t ‘spoil’ a baby.
The physical wellbeing of parents prior to pregnancy is an important factor in the development of a baby’s development.
Watch: A new way to think about the transition to motherhood
Alexandra Sacks. May 2018
Watch the Ted Talk below and think about the expectations of motherhood. How does Alexandra describe the psychological factors that happen when mothers are adjusting to pregnancy?
Develop your understanding of ‘Physical wellbeing’
Bronfenbrenner offers a theoretical idea which will allow you to explore how the caregiver might impact upon the child.
Watch: Ecological Systems Theory
Odyssey Institute
Use the link above to watch a video which explains Bronfenbrenner’s theoretical idea and make notes about how children are part of an ecological system. Think about how the mental and physical wellbeing of parents and caregivers are important for the baby’s healthy development.
Bronfenbrenner recognised the critical importance of the emotional relationship between a child and an adult, whereas Bowlby’s observation underscores the responsibility of communities and practitioners in supporting healthy child development by supporting parents.
The belief that we can support children directly, without supporting their parents, overlooks the complex system of relationships within which children develop.1 Together, Bronfenbrenner and Bowlby remind us that to support healthy development, we must focus on the emotional quality of the relationships within which the child participates—as well as consider how the larger community supports those relationships.
Parenting and Child Development: A Relational Health Perspective – PMC (nih.gov)
Reflect upon ‘Physical wellbeing’
You’ve now had the opportunity to look at the importance of the mental and physical wellbeing of all parents and caregivers to support the healthy development of a baby.
Read: The importance of responding to a crying baby
Alessandra Biaggi. May 31
Visit the webpage using the link above to read about the importance of responding to a baby who is crying.
