I’m not sure how to bond with my baby

Health visitor Dawn replies: Don't worry, you're probably ‘bonding' naturally because everything you do together lets him know that you're there for him.
At 5 weeks old he'll be awake for longer periods during the day, so take advantage of this with some stimulating play. He can listen to and enjoy music - so sing nursery rhymes, gently rattling a tub of rice or pasta. Go around the house together and see what different noises you can make. He's probably just learnt how to focus using both eyes and track moving
objects, so try passing shiny foil or bright toys in front his face. And if he's gurgling and cooing, talk to him face-to-face and coo back - he will smile to indicate how much he appreciates your efforts.
It's very easy to overstimulate small babies so look out for signs that he's getting tired and needs a break, like turning his head or looking away.
For more information, pick up a copy of The Social Baby by Lynne Murray
and Liz Andrews (£12.99, CP Publishing). It's full of fascinating photographs illustrating the subtle ways in which babies communicate.

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