Gentle holding when upset
6–12 monthsEmotional WellbeingNo materials needed
When your child is upset, hold them close and move gently (swaying, rocking, or walking). Let them feel your calm presence. Don't rush to stop the emotion, just be present with them while they experience it.
Part of the Imprint developmental journey — personalized to your child.
How to Do This Activity
When your child is upset, hold them close and move gently (swaying, rocking, or walking). Let them feel your calm presence. Don't rush to stop the emotion, just be present with them while they experience it.
Your calm body during their emotional moment teaches them that big feelings are normal and manageable with support.
Why It Works
Responsive caregiving that includes soothing through physical comfort is a key practice for supporting emotional co-regulation in infants. When parents hold and comfort a distressed child without judgment, they teach the child that emotions are acceptable and manageable. This responsive interaction builds secure attachment and supports the development of emotional regulation capacity, which predicts better mental health, relationship quality, and life satisfaction throughout the lifespan (Bar-On, 2006).
Tips for Parents
Keep your own breathing slow and deep. Your child will sense your calmness through your physical presence.
Sometimes they need to cry while being held. That's okay. Your presence shows them they're not alone in their feelings.
Materials Needed
None
Learning Methods
Responsive InteractionSensory Exploration
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