The holidays are a great time to think about attachment parenting in a practical way. For virtually every religion or spiritual path this time of year is about love, sharing, reflection and thanks. Yet, it has become a commercial monster. All around us there is pressure to show love of other people by purchasing and giving them objects, rather than actually connecting with them. In this electronic age, this action does just as much to separate people from one another, as to bring them together. How does an object show or share love? How can something inanimate have a more intimate meaning than a personal connection?
The 8 principles of attachment parenting, as set down by Attachment Parenting International are:
1. Preparing for pregnancy, birth and parenting
2. Feed with Love and Respect
3. Respond with Sensitivity
4. Use Nurturing Touch
5. Ensure Safe Sleep, Physically and Emotionally
6. Provide Consistent and Loving Care
7. Practice Positive Discipline
8. Strive for Balance in Personal and Family Life
These principles can apply to anyone of any age, but the effects of these principles are particularly obvious when considering a young child. No object can take the place of a parent's presence. A child will not care about a toy so much as having his/her parent there to play with that toy with them. Instead of going out and purchasing a 'thing' for someone you love, or in addition to that purchase, take a little time to reflect about why you love this person, why you have them in your life, and why you want to show them that love at this time of year in the first place? Gifts are fun, both to give and receive, but by taking a little time to reflect on these 8 principles, greater meaning can be found in these holidays, the bond with the people you love can be strengthened in immeasurable ways, and your idea of an appropriate gift may change.
Enjoy your gifts this year but remember, also, to reattach yourself to your loved ones this holiday season.
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