Katharina Buczek
Interestingly, the children raised using responsive parenting also had lower body mass indices (BMIs) than the control group children until three years old.
Emily Hohman, an assistant research professor in Penn State’s Center for Childhood Obesity Research, explained how parents can get started using responsive parenting habits in their own lives.
First, she recommends setting a bedtime schedule and sticking to it.
“People sometimes think that if they keep their babies awake with them later at night, then the baby will sleep later,” Hohman said.
“But the research shows that early establishment of a bedtime between seven and eight o’clock will help babies sleep longer.”
“Additionally, your child’s bedtime routine should include activities that are optimal for “winding down.”
These might consist of a bath, some reading time, or anything else that soothes your child. The important things to avoid are any activities that are overly stimulating.
Finally, to promote self-soothing, the researchers suggest putting your child in bed while they are still half-asleep.
If your child awakes during the night, which is inevitable, Hohman advises parents to use “lighter touch” soothing techniques.
These can include words of reassurance, offering your child a pacifier, or gently touching them.
But, you want to avoid completely picking up your child, rocking, or feeding them unless they remain distressed or appear hungry.
