Tips for the new father

When a baby is born, all the attention is on the mother and the baby. And rightfully so, since the two need all the care in the world. However, the role of the father is very important even at this stage. The new dad has lot of responsibilities on his hand – he has to take care of both mom and the baby without getting annoyed or irritated. Here’s how to do your best as husband and dad:

1. Playing an active role in your child’s life is vital for his emotional, physical, and cognitive development. Hold your baby as often as possible. By directly caring for your infant, you will learn about the baby’s needs, how he communicates, and what comforts him best.
2. Be prepared to feel left out at times. Your wife utilizes most of her energy and attention on the new baby. Be extra supportive and patient. Delivering a baby can be traumatic. Hormones ebb and flow. If there is ever a time to understand and care for your wife, this is it.
3. Dads need to be more supportive and helpful. Share tasks like changing diapers, help around in the house by doing some household work like laundry. Talk to other new fathers about your experience and theirs.
4. Most new parents experience a loss of sexual intimacy. Abstinence during pregnancy, pain, perineal tear, and breastfeeding can inhibit a woman’s desire to have sex. Men can feel betrayed if rejected physically and mentally. It is important to talk about your feelings. Choose ways like cuddling, kissing, and holding hands to be physically intimate.
5. One of main roles of a father is that of a protector. There are many ways you need to do this. Safety is one: child-proof your home.
6. Dads now need to take care of driving, diet, and risk taking. Your baby needs you for a long time. Being healthy and happy dad is one of the greatest gifts you can give your kid.
7. Dads need to provide financial protection to the new child. So get a life insurance, car insurance, an emergency fund, and a will.
8. Try your best to spend as much time as possible with your new baby. While work may be your passion, it won’t be long before children grown and no longer want to spend time with you. Take advantage of these years.
9. Give the tiny tot gentle hugs. Dads shouldn’t be afraid to show affection. Babies need physical contact, and not just from their moms. Snuggle with them, hug them, and kiss them.
10. Read a baby-book to your child. Babies do understand. Sing him a gentle song or play a very soft music. Find out what makes your baby happy.
11. Be good to the mom. Dads should be good and loving to mother of their new baby. Give her some time alone and babysit while she goes out, show affection to her, and give her little surprises. Because when the mom is happy, the baby is happy and the dad will be happy too.