Integrative mindfulness-based infant parenting program: theoretical foundations and a novel intervention protocol.

Infancy is a formative period in which high-quality parental care plays a vital role in setting solid foundations that guide a child's development. Mindfulness has been recognized for enhancing parental awareness and sensitivity to both self and child and can be utilized in clinical practice to facilitate healthy development. To adapt mindful parenting practice for implementation in pediatric care settings and the specific needs and challenges of parenting infants, the current study introduces a novel theoretical framework, combining mindfulness with elements from calming cycle theory, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), trauma-informed care, emotion-focused therapy, schema therapy, and Vygotsky's learning theory.