Tips for New Dads - It has been said that Dads-to-be may go though some of the same phases that their pregnant partners go through, including stress, anxiety, weight gain and sometimes morning sickness! There is no doubt that bringing a new person into the world can be stressful, especially if finance are tight or you’re planning to move to a larger place to accommodate the larger family.


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Tips for New Dads

It has been said that Dads-to-be may go though some of the same phases that their pregnant partners go through, including stress, anxiety, weight gain and sometimes morning sickness! There is no doubt that bringing a new person into the world can be stressful, especially if finance are tight or you’re planning to move to a larger place to accommodate the larger family.

Dad should always be involved in the pregnancy process including helping the Mom-to- be and of course picking up the pace in the house work department! To help your mate out and build a bonding experience, Lamaze classes, which are held locally by many hospitals and parenting organizations, can be a great way to prepare for childbirth and help couples bond during the process.

Once the due date is near, Dad-to-be has a big choice to make- whether to witness the birth. While there are well known stories about Dad’s that have fainted during the labor process (leaving their poor spouse to fend for themselves!), most men find it not only a satisfying experience, but one of the most memorable days of their life. Witnessing the miracle of birth creates a bond with the family and for many men is like a religious experience.

Once the child is born, Dads want to be involved in the process. So Mom should not be overcritical of the way Dad approaches the process. Dad’s have a slightly different style when it comes to dealing with the child and want to help, so give them constructive pointers to help them in the process.

Many Dads feel that holding a new born baby is uncomfortable and completely foreign to them. But as the saying goes, practice makes perfect! The more you hold your baby, the more you will understand your baby's likes and dislikes. Keep trying until both Dad and baby are comfortable and soon you’ll find the process like second nature.

Research shows that Dad’s approach toddlers different than Mom’s in the sense that they let the baby explore more. While Mom’s tend to be a bit cautious and protective, which can lead the child to act more shy and restrained, fathers generally let the child learn on her own, encouraging the toddler to take risk, and letting them “take their lumps” if they get a minor scrape or bruise, so that the child will be encourage to get back up and try again. Of course, Dad’s play a critical role in a child’s development that can complement a Mother’s nurturing style.