Helping dad bond with the baby
Now that your new baby’s here, you’re probably eager to take care of her. But what about dad? He may feel awkward and not know how to help out. Yet dad needs to get involved, and you can encourage him.
Here are some tips to help your partner feel more at ease and get him into the swing of things:
Don’t rescue him
If dad’s efforts at child care aren’t smooth and efficient at first, don’t show him "the right way" to do a task. His way of doing things doesn’t need to exactly match yours. What’s really important is that the job gets done. If you correct him he may feel inadequate or resentful.
Include dad in the baby’s bedtime routine
Encourage him to help with the baby’s bath or read the baby a story. Again resist the urge to insist he do these bedtime routines "your" way.
Encourage him attend the baby’s doctor appointments with you.
With each visit he’ll learn how the child is developing and what to look for when she’s sick. He may even ask some questions you haven’t thought about.
Seek his advice when making decisions
Sharing parenting means sharing decision-making. When problems pop up seek dad’s advice. Discuss everything with him from how the baby’s room should be arranged to which toys to buy. Also make sure you take his advice—at least some of the time.
