Welcome to fatherhood! Becoming a new father likely fills you with a whole range of emotions, from pride, joy, admiration, a strong sense of responsibility… maybe a little panic!
Bottom line: it’s a life-changing experience! Ah, but not to worry- you’ve got this!
Learning how to “dad” is important, and will take a little time and patience.
Some new dads or partners feel a sense of being a spectator rather than an involved participant, especially if mom is breastfeeding. But there are many things you can do to be a part of your new baby’s everyday routine.
- Take turns getting up in the middle of the night. You can get the baby, change his diaper, and take him to mom for a feeding if she is breastfeeding. When he is done, put him back in his crib. This helps to decrease burnout. It is awfully hard to be the only person always getting up in the middle of the night. It also helps to ensure baby gets put back safely in his crib.
- Choose a time during the day that you can be involved in bath time. Often bathing a newborn requires several hands too! Bath time can be a playful time with a newborn, so enjoy it!
- Take the baby for a walk. This gives you one on one time with your infant and allows mom some special time alone.
- Know that you also need some personal time for the things that you like to do. Together you can work out a schedule that benefits both of you.
Be sure to be involved in your newborn’s life. You don’t want to miss out on the most rewarding and remarkable times with your baby. If you are feeling left out, discuss together how you can become more involved and helpful. Mom will almost always be able to make suggestions and she will be glad to have your support.
