While the concept of attachment parenting dates back to ancient times, and is considered the norm in most countries today, Dr. Bill Sears only coined the term "attachment parenting" relatively recently in the United States, in the 1980's. In America, the child-led approach to parenting is still highly regarded as an alternative form of raising a child, and adheres to practices including babywearing, co-sleeping, breastfeeding on demand and extended nursing, gentle discipline and natural birth. We've covered all of these topics and more on Inhabitots, as many of the writers and editors on our team practice attachment parenting with our own children.
Even if full-throttle attachment parenting isn't your style, many moms and dads choose to do some, if not all of the practices on which the philosophy is based -- simply by following their own instincts to bond with and do what's best for their baby.
Wearing your infant is a wonderful way to keep him secure and safe. Read about the art of babywearing, and safety guidelines for properly wearing your baby. Sleeping with your baby is another great way to make baby feel secure, one, which studies have proven, is healthy and reduces a child's stress.
If you're interested in learning more about AP, read our book review of Beyond the Sling by Mayim Bialik, and then check out our Q&A about attachment parenting with the actress, mom and neuroscientist. We've also featured books wherein the authors are completely against the concept of AP, and go as far as saying it imprisons mothers, and that it's an anti-feminist approach to bringing up baby -- because of course, there are always two sides to every coin.