Let’s face it….moms get an entire nine months to mentally and physically prepare for their new bundle of joy. Moms-to-be get to experience all of the movement in their tummies and all the sounds and other sensations that the baby makes as it develops. All of this direct feedback gives moms-to-be a sense of attachment and love towards their newborn.
Other than a few kicks, Dads have to rely on moms to relay the new baby emotions and then are expected to understand fatherhood, be all-knowing and instantly fall in love with a total stranger. Don’t worry dads, the love and attachment will come and grow gradually as you get to know this little being. Here are some tips to help get you started down that journey;
No time like the present.
Take time while your significant other is pregnant to connect with the baby. Attend doctor’s appointments where you can see the baby through the ultra sound and hear his little heart beat on the Doppler machine. You men love your techie stuff….this is the
best of both worlds.
Let’s get physical….
There is nothing like holding a newborn to generate a bond. This may sound corny,but if you hold your baby while you are bare chested and your baby is unclothed, you can feel their newborn skin on yours and feel their heart beating. That will give you a sense of connection. And the plus side is if the baby barfs or “leaks” on you while you are holding them you won’t dirty any clothes :-)
Technique isn’t important.
Take time to do some of the daily activities like changing diapers, bathing, burping, dressing, etc. You may not be able to breastfeed, but you can take a big role in everything else. Regular and consistent exposure as well as participation in the daily fun will help with the bonding experience. And the good news is that babies aren’t that judgmental on how you do things as long as you get them done. …just remember to put the diapers on the correct way!
Go Solo.
As a dad you are probably given a lot of (ahem) instruction on specific ways to handle your newborn. These tips from mom are great and probably very helpful, but it’s nice to do things a little different sometimes too. Having your own way of caring for your child will help to distinguish you from your wife in your babies eyes…..well, the facial hair and man hands might give it away too!
Other than that, just live in themoment. Don’t be afraid to step in and do your dad-things. Your wife will be appreciative (trust me) and you will start to feel that bond that everyone speaks to fondly of.
Have fun out there dads!
Tagged: Activites with Kids, Baby, changing diapers, children, dad, Emotional Issues, Family, infant, infant care, new baby, New Dad, New Parents, newborn, Parenting, rookie dad
