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Five factors to ensure an infant thrives

Environmental stimulation and positive caregiving are two of the five factors that help a baby thrive. (Photo: Shutterstock)
Environmental stimulation and positive caregiving are two of the five factors that help a baby thrive. (Photo: Shutterstock)
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There are basic resources every baby needs for the best possible chance to develop as a healthy well-functioning human.

Start with good nutrition, breast milk if possible. That baby is going to need stimulation, lots of looking, reciprocal interactions, exposure to language and interesting stimuli. If at all possible, you should live in a place where you don’t have to constantly be looking over your shoulder in fear while you coo at the baby. Lastly, you must help babies learn how to regulate themselves, including developing regular circadian rhythms and sleep.