advice for dads

Being a new dad can be really exciting and a little scary, but often dads need a small push when it comes to parenting advice, just to show them how they can help out with their new baby. New mums are forever being given advice, but dads are often left out when it comes to hints and tips. 

Here’s some valuable baby advice for dads - Just because dad can’t breastfeed, doesn’t mean he can’t play a key role in caring for his new born too! 

It is not only important to support your partner after pregnancy but it is also important that you both bond with your baby. Whether you have a son or daughter, there are many ways which you can connect with your little one as dad to make your family a happy one. 

• You can support and encourage your partner while she is feeding by bringing her drinks and making sure she is comfortable.
• Sit with your partner and share the feeding process. You don't need to hold a bottle to feel close to your baby. Just being there to watch and support will help.
• When the time comes try and be the one who introduces your baby to bottle feeds. That way you can get into the habit of feeding when mum’s not around. 
• When your baby wakes, you can change his or her nappy before handing to Mum for feeding so that you’re interacting with your little one regularly.
• Remember that when you feed mum, you feed baby too so get cooking healthy meals to ensure that they both get the vitamins and nutrients they’ll need. 

• Skin-to-skin contact between father and baby is just as much of an intimate experience as breastfeeding.  Once your baby has finished a feed, give him or her cuddle with bare arms. Remember not to wear strong aftershaves as these could irritate your baby’s skin. Within minutes your baby’s temperature, respiration and heart rate will settle and you will both experience the same closeness as a mother does while breastfeeding
• Another way to stay close to your baby is to have a bath or shower together. Babies really love this and being held in the bath by dad makes all the splashing water and sticky soaps a lot less scary. 
• An infant massage is good for dads to bond with their babies as babies love to be touched and snuggled. Lay your little one on a flat surface and gently rub your palms together with baby oil to warm them. Sing and talk to your baby to get them giggling and massage lightly. Watch how your baby responds. If they do not seem to like it, try using a lighter touch.  
• Very few dads have the patience to push a huge buggy so carrying your baby in a sling or carrier is the next best thing as it keeps baby close to your body for maximum warmth and bonding.
• Surely mum can’t be left to do all the dirty work so changing your baby’s nappy not only gives your partner a break, but it gives you a great opportunity to laugh and talk with your baby.

So go on Dads, 'get your kit off ' and cuddle your baby!

Advice for dads by Sharon Trotter, Midwife and breastfeeding consultant.