I am currently writing a book about the role and work of hospital play specialists. (I am an HPS myself).
It has become really clear to me as I write (a process that coincides with the first year of DS2's life) thatI need to write very specifically about the experience of Babies in hospital, their needs, their parents needs and any effects that the experience of being in hospital at this very sensitive age might have on bonding and attachment.
I have not had this exact experience myself and although I understand all the theoretical stuff on bonding and attachment (plus have an adopted DD, so have looked into this area and the effects of early experiences more than most) I am really interested to hear from some real mums what that experience is like, from everyone's perspectives. Do you feel that the experience of bing in hospital with your young baby has had an effect(short/long term, temporary/permanent, serious or trivial) on your relationship/bonding with your baby. Were hospital staff helpful? Did you feel that they understood the needs of little babies and their families adequately?
Also interested to know what things did/would have helped you in bonding with and caring for your babes in hospital.
Would be gratfeul for any responses. Many thanks.