Spoiling children

Especially the generation of our grandparents carries the concern to spoil the offspring and tries to counteract with numerous tips. They have learned that a baby needs food, a fresh diaper and clothes. Nothing more. But can I even spoil my child this early? The answer to that is no.

Today's brain research proves that this is not possible, especially during a baby's first year of life. Connections in the brain to consciously manipulate are not present in the first 1.5 years.

Newborns have a pronounced need for closeness, which ensures their survival - because whoever lies snuggled up to mom and dad is safe. The close skin contact during carrying and e.g. co-sleeping strengthens the bond between parents and child and is a basis for further development. Babies experience security and strengthen their self-confidence. This has the great advantage that children who have their need for closeness adequately satisfied tend to be more content and balanced. They are able to go through life more fear-free and self-confident. Just as every parent would like.

However, we spoil older children, for example, by feeding them or lacing their shoes, even though they can do this themselves. We no longer satisfy their basic needs. Apart from that, the term "spoiling" does not have any negative connotations for adults. Without a guilty conscience, we indulge in wellness, for example.

Grandparents should simply be encouraged much more to carry their grandchildren with them as well, if possible. It is all the more important to actively involve them and to accompany the new family member into life together.

We should all remember that there is no such thing as too much cuddling, too much kissing, too much carrying. We don't spoil our children by loving them too much, because there can never be too much love.