Studies of the developmental needs and capabilities of newborn babies indicate the importance of physical contact, sounds, and visual stimulation to the infant's bonding with the parents, the basis for subsequent child development. Bristor and colleagues, among others, have demonstrated that helping new parents acquire skills essential for communicating with their newborns enhances parent-infant interactions. This program is introduced to new parents in the first days following the birth of their baby. Parents are given a picture book illustrating parent-baby communication and are then shown how their new baby can use sensory capabilities to respond to caregiving. The direct demonstration and feedback to the new parents by the coach are important. The demanding work of parenthood is made easier when parents have the understanding support of other parents, volunteers, or professionals. Various approaches to this kind of assistance include home visitor programs and parent groups where members share experiences and learn from one another. 37 references.