Treating infants as capable, whole people deserving of dignity
Core Idea: Respectful baby care involves treating infants as whole people with preferences, desires for connection, and capacity to participate in their own care, rather than as passive recipients of caregiving.
Key Elements
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Fundamental Principles
- Communication and connection take precedence over "baby talk"
- Asking permission before touching, holding, or moving infants
- Allowing infants time to respond and participate in care routines
- Prioritizing real connection and turn-taking conversations
- Providing simple, beautiful environments over stimulating gadgets
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Specific Practices
- Approaching diaper changes with respect (showing the diaper, giving visual contact)
- Using care routines (feeding, bathing, changing) as opportunities for connection
- Moving slowly and mindfully during interactions
- Waiting for concentration to end before interrupting play
- Following the child's developmental timeline rather than forcing positions
- Limiting overstimulation in favor of quality interaction
- Prioritizing real-world interactions over screen time
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Psychological Impact
- Fosters security and trust
- Respects bodily autonomy from an early age
- Creates the foundation for healthy boundaries
- Acknowledges infant agency and capability
Connections
- Related Concepts: Observation in Montessori Parenting (informs respectful care), Basic Trust Development (builds through respectful interactions)
- Broader Context: Montessori Philosophy (philosophical foundation for respect)
- Applications: Diaper Changing Routine (practical application of respectful principles), Communication with Infants (methods for dialogue)
- Components: Asking Permission (specific technique within respectful care)
References
- Davies, S. The Montessori Baby
- Gerber, M. Dear Parent: Caring for Infants With Respect
- Gonzalez-Mena, J. & Eyer, D. Infants, Toddlers, and Caregivers
#respectfulcare #montessori #infantcare #parenting
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