Becoming a dad is a thrilling experience, but it’s not all about having fun and games with the baby. There is another crucial aspect of fatherhood which often takes a back seat during the early stages of a child’s life, and that is bonding with your little one.
Bonding with your baby is essential to establish a lifelong and loving relationship with them. Many new dads find that they have trouble bonding with their baby, especially during the first few months, because they think all the baby need is their mum. However, the good news is that there are several ways in which dads can bond with their little ones and support their partner.
Spend Quality Time with Baby
A great way for dads to bond with their baby is to spend quality time with them. This can include playing gently, talking, reading, or singing to your baby. Make sure to snuggle up close to your little one and enjoy their company. Doing skin to skin is a great bonding tip which will not only improve the relationship with your baby, but also keep them warm. Spending time like this helps create a trusting and loving relationship between you and your child.
Help with Nighttime Changes and Feedings
Newborns need to be fed every few hours, and it’s common for new moms to feel tired and overwhelmed handling everything alone. Dads can support their partners by taking on some of the tasks, such as nighttime diaper changes, and feeding the baby if the baby takes a bottle. Helping out your partner during these challenging moments can be a real bonding experience and can be a real source of comfort for your child. Also, what other way to show how much you love and appreciate your partner than giving them a few hours of rest.
Take over Household Chores
Another way for dads to support their partners is by taking over some of the housework. Taking on household chores such as cooking, laundry, or cleaning can free up some of your partner's time, making them more relaxed and available for parenting. If you are feeling more confident, taking over the baby bath time routine helps to create that special bond with your little one. It also shows how much you care for your family. Please don´t give the excuse that you don't know how to cook, thanks to Youtube, you can be the next big Chef, and surprise your partner with their favorite dishes.
Go on Daddy and Baby Outings
Dads can also have one-on-one quality time with their baby by going on outings, such as a walk, a trip to the park, or shopping. This provides an opportunity for dads to bond with their baby and gives moms some much-needed time to relax or get work done around the house. Go to the park or supermarket with the baby immediately after a feed, you will be surprise how that 20 mins walk will be beneficial for both your partner and the baby.
Be Involved in Doctor Appointments
Dads can also bond with their baby by accompanying the mother to the baby's doctor appointments. It shows that you are aware of what's going on and interested in the well-being of your new child. Additionally, it might help build trust or confidence in the mom that you are equally interested in the baby's health and development.
Bonding with your baby takes time, and dads sometimes feel left out, especially in the early months and mostly when mum is doing exclusive breastfeeding. However, by spending quality time with your baby through other ways, supporting your partner, and being involved in important family routines, dads can bond with their little ones, create a lifelong connection, and become a supportive partner to their wife while raising their new addition.
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