(HealthDay News) -- It's important for parents and their newborn infants to bond. While the process sometimes seems to occur naturally, it often takes lots of time and effort.

The Nemours Foundation suggests how to help parents bond with a new baby:

• Cradle the infant and gently stroke him or her using different hand movements.
• Sing songs and read to your baby.
• Mimic baby's movements and vocal sounds.
• Let baby feel your face.
• Carry baby in a front carrier while you're engaged in normal activities.