Held

Supporting Infant Mental Health Through Relationship, Connection and Care

From the moment they are born, babies begin learning about the world through relationships.

Held is an evidence-based guide that explores the foundations of infant mental health during the early months and years of life. Written for parents, caregivers, and professionals, it translates complex research into practical, accessible information that can be applied in everyday family life.

Rather than focusing on perfect parenting, Held explores how emotional wellbeing develops through connection, communication, co-regulation, and responsive care.

Inside the guide, you'll learn:

✔ What infant mental health is and why it matters

✔ How relationships shape early development

✔ The difference between attachment theory and attachment parenting

✔ How babies communicate before they have words

✔ Why caregiver wellbeing matters for babies

✔ How co-regulation supports emotional development

✔ The role of community, support, and the village around a family

✔ Practical ways to nurture infant mental health in everyday life

Who is this guide for?

• Expectant parents preparing for life with a baby
• New parents and caregivers
• Birth and postpartum professionals
• Anyone interested in infant development and emotional wellbeing

A Gentle, Evidence-Based Approach

This guide combines current research in infant mental health, attachment, and child development with a compassionate, relationship-centred perspective.

Because infant mental health is not built in grand gestures.

It's built in ordinary moments of connection, repeated day after day.