I have read that there are 3 important times to connect with your child. When they first wake up, when they reunite with you (after being at school/ daycare/ friend’s house) and before they go to sleep.

Connecting with your child right away in the morning gives a positive start to the day.

Connecting after they have been away reinforces that you are always there for them.

Connecting before bed allows time to talk about the highs and the lows of the day. It gives your child reassurance that tomorrow is a new day and you will be there to greet them.

Peek-a-boo shows the importance of seeing you and being seen by you. Children thrive when they know they have caregivers who connect with them throughout the day. Children love to know they are seen and heard. When a caregiver says, “Oh no, you disappeared. Where are you?” It shows that they are valued and missed when they are gone.