Hugs are much more than just an expression of love — they are a vital component of a baby’s emotional and social development. During the first months of life, infants are especially sensitive to external influences, and every physical contact — including warm hugs — plays a fundamental role in shaping their emotional skills and building secure attachments.
At Gliozheni Clinic, with a long history and reputation as one of the most complete and renowned private healthcare institutions in Albania in the fields of obstetrics, gynecology, and assisted reproduction, we emphasize the importance of comprehensive care that includes every aspect of your child’s well-being.
Why Are Hugs So Important for Babies?
Skin-to-skin contact and hugs provide a wide range of benefits that go far beyond the comforting feeling of closeness.
1. Emotional Development and a Sense of Security
For newborns, the world is new and often overwhelming. Hugs provide a sense of safety and comfort. When a baby is held, they feel loved, protected, and secure. This sense of safety helps regulate their nervous system, reducing stress and laying a healthy foundation for emotional development. Babies who are hugged often tend to be calmer and develop a stronger bond with their caregivers.
2. Stimulation of Brain Development
Research shows that physical contact, such as hugging, stimulates the release of oxytocin, known as the “love hormone” or “bonding hormone.” Oxytocin plays a key role in brain development, particularly in areas related to emotions, bonding, and social behavior. This process builds essential neural pathways that are crucial for cognitive and emotional growth.
3. Social Benefits and Parent–Child Bonding
Hugs are an early form of non-verbal communication. They help babies learn about trust and human interaction. Through hugs, infants begin to understand the concept of connection and relationships. This builds a strong foundation for their future social development and their ability to form healthy relationships later in life.
For parents, hugs deepen the emotional bond with their baby, creating a mutual feeling of love and understanding.
4. Support for Physical Well-Being
Beyond emotional and developmental benefits, hugs also promote physical health. They can help stabilize a baby’s heart rate, body temperature, and sleep patterns. For premature infants, skin-to-skin contact (“kangaroo care”) has been shown to significantly improve health outcomes.
Hug Your Baby as Often as You Can!
At Gliozheni Clinic, we strongly believe in the importance of holistic care for children — and this includes the emotional aspects of their development. Our dedicated team, including specialists such as Prof. Dr. Orion Gliozheni, who has made a significant contribution to maternal and child health in Albania, is here to provide you with high-quality services, professionalism, and a warm, family-friendly environment.
Gliozheni Clinic also has a rich history as a pioneer in Albania in the field of in vitro fertilization (IVF-ET), with over 2,000 children born through this process — bringing the joy of parenthood to countless families.
So, hug your baby as often as possible. It is a simple yet profound gift that nourishes their heart, brain, and soul for a lifetime. This small daily practice builds the foundation for a happy, secure, and healthy child.
Contact Gliozheni Clinic
For any questions or concerns about your child’s development, do not hesitate to reach out to our specialists at Gliozheni Clinic.
📍 Address: Rr. Zonja Çurre, Tirana
🕗 Hours: Monday to Friday, 08:00 – 19:30
📞 Phone: +355 (4) 222 36 32
📱 Mobile: +355 67 27 33 333
📧 Email: info@klinikagliozheni.com
We are here to support you at every step of your parenting journey.