Bonding with your baby in pregnancy

You, a partner or a family member can help to keep your baby happy and help it to develop in lots of ways before it is born by:

• stroking the tummy
• singing
• playing music

Your baby can hear you from at least 16 weeks, and perhaps earlier. Babies hear their mother’s voices most clearly, but anyone can talk and sing to them – your baby will love to hear from anyone.

This helps your baby:

• to get to know voices, which will help them feel safe and secure
• tune up their hearing and get ready for when they will eventually talk

Talking and singing to your baby is also good for their development. Find a quiet time when you and your baby can focus on each other and use a tuneful, sing-song voice. You may notice that your baby is more active when they hear your voice. Try calming stories, songs or music when your baby is quiet, or at bedtime.

It doesn't matter what music or song – if you like it, so will your baby. Never put headphones on mum’s tummy though, as it’s too loud for your baby.

If you feel a bit silly talking to the bump, don’t worry – lots of people do. If you can’t think of anything to say, just chat about the day, share a story, or read a book or magazine out loud.

Ready to Relate is a programme delivered by Bradford District Care Trust, that aims to help you understand your amazing baby! 

Every baby has its own little personality, even in the womb! Research shows us that they smile, frown and can respond to things we do.

Head over to the Ready to Relate website where you can find some helpful information and activities to help you build a relationship with your baby in pregnancy and when they are born.

The website has an amazing toolkit, to access this you need a password. Please speak to your midwife, health visitor or a family navigator at your local hub who can take you through this.