Fatherhood

Many new fathers struggle to figure out their role when they have a baby.  The close, intimate relationship between the mother and baby can be intimidating for some fathers, or the father might not live in the same home. New dads can do some simple things to bond with their baby.

• Hold your baby skin to skin with the baby’s bare chest against your bare chest. This can start in the hospital and continue at home.
• Cradle, rock, read a book, and sing to your baby.  You can even do some of these during pregnancy.
• Get on diaper duty – help with the thousands of diaper changes that will take place in the first couple of years. Narrate the diaper change by telling the baby what you are doing with each move you make, or make up a song for the diaper change.
• Encourage breastfeeding and support efforts by bringing the baby to the mom at feeding time.  This is very helpful, especially in the middle of the night, and keeps you involved in feeding time.
• Make bath time your fun time with baby.
• As your child gets older and can sit up, crawl, or walk, you can bond by feeding, playing, making sandcastles at the beach, and more.  Your only limit is your imagination.

Fathers Not Living With Their Children

An actively involved father is important to a child’s development and self-esteem. Children need the love and support of their fathers, regardless of whether they live in the home.

If you are a father who does not live with your child, you still play an important role in their life. Call often, even during the early months, to let your baby hear your voice and see your face on a video call. Make it a priority to see your child frequently and schedule visits even if they are during a time that is most convenient for the mother. Make every effort to be there for your child in every way possible and be a good role model through your words and actions.