After a long pregnancy, mothers are likely to be mentally and physically exhausted, and this feeling continues as their bodies readjust to life without a baby inside them. At this time, it is very common for mums to get “baby brain” and ask for the occasional timeout. This is when dad can play a vital role in the care of the little one.
Dads may sometimes feel like a third wheel, but every little thing they do can be a great help for the mother and can aid in the bonding between father and child. Here are some ways dad can be involved in newborn care.
Help Overcome “Baby Brain”
Being a mother is a tiring experience no matter how well you cope with the pregnancy and the newborn care. You are likely to feel tired, and this can lead to forgetfulness or trouble thinking. Many mothers will beat themselves up over this, but it is entirely normal, and the fact of the matter is it will take time to adjust to life with a newborn baby and recover from pregnancy.
This is where dad can come in handy—from the moment the child is delivered and during the early stages of care. Dad can help with doing chores around the house, keeping over-eager family and friends away, or just figuring out what is on the menu for dinner.
Everyone’s Favorite Job
Diaper changes will quickly become part of the daily routine, and a willing and able father will be very helpful. Having someone who is not afraid to take charge will give you some time to do other things around the house or to just enjoy five minutes of peace.
Feeding Time
Dads can play a crucial role in feeding, especially if you choose to use formula milk. You can take turns to feed the little one, or if your partner works an early shift, they can get up and feed the baby before going to work. They can also help you prepare the bottles.
If you decide to breastfeed, the father can still help you by getting snacks or drinks for you while you’re feeding or taking care of the post-feed burps!
Playtime
Being a parent to a newborn is a full-time job, so anytime you can find to chill out is a moment to cherish. When you are feeling tired or need to pop out for an hour, it can give baby and dad an excellent opportunity to interact with one another.
There are loads of things dad can do to help here, such as carrying the little one around to explore, helping them play with toys and objects, and just making your baby laugh. All these activities can help them develop social and motor skills and help the two of them to bond.
These are just a few ways dad can help out with newborn baby care, and with you both working together as a team, you should start adjusting to life with the little one around in no time at all.
