Daddy Bonding
Dads need and want to bond with their newborn babies. Here are just a few simple steps that will help benefit baby and daddy – not to mention mommy!
#1 Recognize the importance of your husband’s bond with your newborn
You had nearly then months to bond with your baby in a way that your husband didn’t. When you bring your newborn home, support the development of that bond by encouraging your partner to hold your baby, giving him baby care responsibility and trusting him to complete them.
#2 Don’t criticize!
With first babies in particular your partner may feel awkward and not know how to help. Encourage him but resist the urge to criticize his efforts to jump in and show him the “right way”. He may have a different, even less efficient way of doing things, but that’s not as important as his developing a relationship with your baby.
#3 Get out of his way
Dad can’t bond with the baby and develop a relationship if you never let him take on any of the baby care tasks. Let him bathe and feed baby on his own!
#4 Let dad put baby to bed
Bathing, reading stories and rocking gently are all wonderful parts of the night time routine and they may be just the right time for dad to get in some extra bonding time.
#5 Respect dads way of parenting
Dads parent differently than moms. It is important that as mothers, we respect and value what they bring to the table.
Nurse Jenny is a mother of four and a grandmother of 10! Now retired, Nurse Jenny spends time with her grandchildren and shares her years of wisdom and expereince through various media outlets. If you have any questions for Nurse Jenny please email us at info@lovablelabels.ca and we will be sure to pass them along!
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Great tips – thanks!