Is a bottle considered an excellent substitute for cuddling or attention?

A bottle is not an excellent substitute for cuddling or attention because physical and emotional bonding through touch, eye contact, and responsive interaction is essential for an infant's emotional development. Cuddling provides comfort and security, which nourishes the baby's need for affection and connection. While a bottle may satisfy hunger, it does not replace the relational aspects of nurturing that promote attachment and trust in caregivers.

The emphasis should be on responsive feeding practices, where caregivers engage with the infant during feeding times to support emotional connections through eye contact, soothing tones, and gentle physical presence. Prioritizing these interactions fosters a secure attachment and helps in developing healthy emotional and social skills as the child grows.