Why Mollycoddling May Just Be The Best Thing For Your Child

A study conducted by the University of British Columbia recently published an extensive report on how physical affection in early infancy affected children on a molecular level later in life. Researchers from the University of British Columbia and BC Childrens Hospital asked parents to keep diaries of their childrens behaviour sleeping, crying, fussing, etc in tandem with the amount of physical contact they received from their parents. Around 4 years later, these diaries were analysed along with the childrens DNA and what they found is now the basis to prove the theory that lots of affection and physical contact at a young age shape a childs DNA, which affects a childs physical and mental well-being in the long run.

Mollycoddling. A word we’re all familiar with and something many mothers and fathers have been accused of at least once in their career as parents. But while it may not be possible to protect your child from everything – a little sand on the side of that sandwich might even be good for your child – there’s no such thing as being too affectionate. Especially during a child’s infancy.

In fact, a new study confirms that holding and cuddling your baby changes them on a genetic level and in a very good way. A study conducted by the University of British Columbia recently published an extensive report on how physical affection in early infancy affected children on a molecular level later in life.

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The study of DNA methylation patterns in children showed that children who had been more distressed as infants and received less physical contact had a molecular profile that was underdeveloped for their age. It went on to show that the simple act of touching, early in life, has deeply-rooted and potentially lifelong consequences on genetic expression.

The study, conducted over a period of 5 years assessed 94 healthy children in British Columbia. Researchers from the University of British Columbia and BC Children’s Hospital asked parents to keep diaries of their children’s behaviour – sleeping, crying, fussing, etc – in tandem with the amount of physical contact they received from their parents. Around 4 years later, these diaries were analysed along with the children’s DNA and what they found is now the basis to prove the theory that lots of affection and physical contact at a young age shape a child’s DNA, which affects a child’s physical and mental well-being in the long run.

We know about studies conducted into the effect of physical contact on premature babies. Yes, it helps them gain more weight and even leave the NICU faster. But now we know that a whole lot of love and affection can help make stronger, more emotionally stable infants, toddlers and children as well.

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Unfortunately, in India, where new age theories and old age wisdom are still trying to find common ground, parenting is rife with mixed messages.

It isn’t uncommon to find someone telling you long to hold your baby, how often and the amount of physical affection to shower on them. Of course, there is still a difference between showering your child with lots of love and scrambling to protect them from every bite and booboo.

Regardless, it’s refreshing to finally have proof that there’s no such thing as too much physical affection. In fact, physical affection, just like mother’s milk in the first few hours of life, can actually help shape your child and maybe even determine their health in the long run.

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