5 minutes - Article
It won’t always be pretty, but it will make YOU pretty awesome!
So, you have a baby on the way. What an exciting and scary time, especially if you are a first-time dad! Things are about to change and get real!
You can do this! With a good heart and an open mind, you can connect with your new baby, support baby’s mom, and keep them both healthy and safe.
Here are a few goals from a real-life Dad for those first few days, weeks and months after baby arrives. Consider each one for yourself and make it your own!
Dad Goal #1: Support Mom!
For once, it’s not about you! Baby’s mom just went through childbirth and may be breastfeeding and is caring for baby constantly! This is normal. Baby’s mom is likely tired and overwhelmed, so now’s your chance to shine! Helping with the cooking or doing the dishes also means you are helping baby. Taking the load off mom helps her do her job to nurture the baby. Both she and baby will appreciate your new awesome dad-ness.
Dad Goal #2: Get Dirty
Yes, you guessed it, this means changing diapers! Coming from experience, changing your own child’s diaper is not gross (most of the time). If it’s someone else’s kid, I admit, it’s gross! But your own kid? No problem. Changing diapers is a great chance for you to connect with your new baby. Cleaning them up and making them feel loved and dry is a great bonding experience. It won’t always be pretty, but it will make you a pretty awesome new dad!
Dad Goal #3 Sing Songs!
Put baby down to sleep by singing them your favorite song, lullaby style! Discover the joys of parenthood when your kid realizes that “Levitating” by Dua Lipa is not a lullaby, after all! Kind energy, soft tones, and your voice are your baby’s favorite songs anyway - it lets them feel safe.
Dad Goal #4 Carry and Cuddle Baby!
Be a confident and comfortable dad around baby. The ‘Fake-it-till-you-make-it’ approach has worked for many generations of dads before you. Get in there! Learn to hold baby, lay them on your chest skin-to-skin, and remember to always support their neck.
Cuddling with baby on your chest on the couch is sure to make your aunties swoon! They will brag about you for years!
Also, learn to swaddle baby (aka. Baby burrito) – it makes them feel safe and like they are back in the womb. By wrapping their little arms tight in a blanket, you can help calm baby down during those tough crying moments.
Watch this Video on How to Swaddle a Baby
Dad Goal #5 – Review Dad Goal #1
Taking care of the little things so that mom can care for baby makes you a great Dad already. See, we knew you could do it!
You got this!
