I’m Ciske, a PhD candidate in the Department of Developmental Psychobiology within the Baby & Child Research Center.
The first thousand days of our lives are both a special and challenging period. During this time, many developments take place, both for the child and the parent. It can sometimes be a stressful phase, which may impact the mental and physical health of both parent and child.
In my PhD project, I focus on the role of physical closeness between parent and child during this crucial stage. The aim of these studies is to develop new tools to better support parents and children during this period.
My interest and curiosity lie mainly in the influence of physical closeness on the stress system, which is still developing in infants. Parents play an important role in this, as they provide the example for stress regulation and, in doing so, contribute to how this system develops. This early development can have an impact on the rest of life!
Within the Nurturing Connections project, I will continue with new rounds of ongoing research (the BIBO study and SKIPPY study) and start new projects (Mini Moves & SAMI study; more information will follow later).
