5 Simple Ways to Connect with Your Baby During Pregnancy
Because bonding doesn’t have to wait until birth
Pregnancy can feel like a blur sometimes. One minute you’re Googling car seats, and then it hits you like, “wait a minute… this little human isn’t just coming—they’re already here with me.”
The truth is, you don’t have to wait until your baby is in your arms to start building a connection. That bond? It’s already growing. But there are some really simple ways to lean into it a little more—no checklist required.
Here are five that I’ve loved, and that I share often with the mamas I work with:
1. Talk to your baby (yes, even while brushing your teeth)
It doesn’t have to be a deep or poetic conversation. Just little bits of your day—something simple like, “Mama’s making oatmeal,” or “Okay, that meeting was a bit exhausting.” Maybe it’s reading a bedtime story, or whispering “Love you, baby” before bed.
Whether you say it out loud or think it quietly, your baby is already learning the sound of your voice—and it’s one of their favorite sounds in the world.
2. Rest your hands on your belly and take a breath
This one’s so simple, but powerful. Pause for a second, place your hands on your bump, breathe in slowly, and breathe out.
Even just one mindful breath like that can make a difference— especially on those busy days. Bonus: it’s a beautiful way to start easing into birth prep, too.
3. Play some music (or sing if you’re feeling it)
Babies in the womb can hear music around 18–20 weeks, and they start recognizing familiar sounds. So if you have a favorite playlist or a song that just makes you feel good, go ahead and play it often.
Get silly (if you wanna) and dance around with your little one. It’s such a sweet way to connect—and a fun way to add a little movement into your day.
Some mamas even use the same playlist in labor, and it becomes something comforting and familiar.
4. Write down a little note to your baby (nothing fancy)
It could be a letter, a sentence in your Notes app, or even a sticky note on the fridge. Just something about what you’re feeling, or something funny that happened today.
You don’t have to save it (unless you want to). This isn’t about creating the perfect memory—it’s just a little moment to say, I’m thinking of you.
5. Move gently and notice your baby moving with you
Whether it’s a walk around the block, a few stretches, or just swaying side to side while you wait for the teapot to boil—your baby is right there with you.
It can feel really sweet to bring some awareness to that… to remember they’re already a part of your world.
You don’t have to do anything extra to bond.
But if you’re wanting more connection during pregnancy, these little moments can make a big difference—for you and your little one.
Even just one a day. Or one a week.
Whatever works for you, mama.
Just know—you’re already doing more than you think.
xo,
Marlene
P.S. If this has you thinking about birth prep and how you want to feel when the big day comes... I’d love to support you in one of my Hypnobirthing or prenatal classes (in Simi Valley or live on Zoom).
We keep it real, practical, and encouraging—so you can feel connected to yourself and your birth, not just the checklist.
✿ Check out the classes here, or browse the blog if you're just easing in.
