This site is for those interested in discussing, learning more about and practicing attachment parenting (AP). The term AP was coined by Dr. William Sears more than 25 yrs ago-- it is an approach to raising children that is based in the belief that parents ought to be experts in, and create strong emotional bonds with their children. This style of parenting encourages responsiveness to children's needs, and develops trust that their needs will be met.The goal of AP is to help children develop secure, empathic, peaceful, and enduring relationships that will see them into a bright and successful adulthood-- and to make parenting deeply rewarding and enjoyable for the parents.

AP Is not a "one size fits all" formula for parenting, but if you believe it is important to build strong attachment to your child(ren) by practicing the ideals above, you are welcome here.

To become experts in our children, Dr. Sears offers
SEVEN ATTACHMENT TOOLS: THE BABY Bs
1. birth bonding
2. breastfeeding
3. babywearing
4. bed sharing
5. belief in baby's cries
6. balance and boundaries
7. beware of baby trainers

In conjunction with Dr. Sears's work, and informed by current research, API has developed and promotes the eight ideals of AP:

8 IDEALS FOR INFANTS
1. Preparation for Childbirth
2. Emotional Responsiveness
3. Breastfeed your Baby
4. Baby Wearing
5. Nighttime Parenting and Safe Sleeping Guidelines
6. Avoid frequent and prolonged separations from your baby
7. Use Positive Discipline
8. Maintain balance in your family life

8 IDEALS FOR SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN
1. Become knowledgeable about your child's development and cognitive levels
2. Stay emotionally responsive
3. Strive for optimum physical health
4. Maintain a high-touch relationship
5. Develop and maintain positive sleep routines
6. Be present and available for your children
7. Use positive discipline
8. Maintain balance in your family life

This site started when a bunch of like-minded mothers lost their common space on the internet. They needed somewhere to continue conversation, so the web developer in the group stepped in and created this site. Other moms and dads are more than welcome to join in and contribute in the forums.

Gillian Hyde, owner of AP Mamas.com, spent the past ten years travelling the world, but has now planted herself right where she wants to be: in a cozy home near the ocean with her new baby boy and love of her life. She is an outspoken Attachment Parent; she breastfeeds (and would even go so far as to say she is a lactivist), wears her baby as much as possible, cosleeps, cloth diapers and practices elimination communication. She and her husband are raising their son (Ash) as an organic vegetarian.