How dads can get involved in infant care
When dad takes part in the day-to-day care of baby, he forms important emotional bonds with his baby and supports his partner.
Taking care of a baby is hard work. But it's worthwhile when the reward is a happy, healthy child. Babies seem to benefit when both parents are involved in their care, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Dads fill a key role because they parent in different ways than moms.
What dads can do
Parenting a new baby can be a bit scary. But remember, you don't have to be an expert to provide good care for your child. Parenting skills take time and patience to learn.
Here's a look at some of the things dads can do to be involved in their new baby's care:
Get into the routine. A day in the life of a new baby involves a constant cycle of feeding, diapering, bathing and comforting. When dads do these tasks, it gives them a chance to get to know their little ones and establish emotional bonds.
If your partner has chosen to breastfeed, you can help by bringing the baby to her. Then, perhaps, you can burp the baby afterward or change a diaper. After breastfeeding is well-established, you may be able to bottle-feed your baby for some feedings with expressed breast milk or formula. This will help you bond with your baby and gives your partner a chance to rest.
Support mom. Caring for a new baby can be stressful and tiring. You and your partner must learn how to balance the child's needs with household tasks and work schedules. Sometimes it can be hard to find time to be together.
Fatigue and breastfeeding may make your partner less interested in sex. This may make you feel that you don't get as much attention or affection as you'd like. You may even feel jealous. These feelings are normal. Most of the time, though, they go away.
You and your partner can support each other by sharing the tasks of caring for your baby. In time, your baby will settle into a more regular routine. Then you'll find more time for your relationship again.
Make time for play. Men and women care for the physical needs of their babies in similar ways. But the way they play with them is very different, according to the AAP.
Moms seem to provide more low-key stimulation for their babies. They may gently rock their child or play quiet games. They also often spend time singing and doing other soothing activities.
Dads tend to excite their babies during play. They roughhouse. And they make more noise and move their babies around more vigorously than most moms do. Babies respond by laughing and moving more with dads than with moms. Both styles are useful and complement each other.
Benefits for baby
One of the most important benefits your baby can receive from you is a close and loving relationship. But research also shows that children with involved fathers:
- Do better in school.
- Have less chance of becoming teen parents or getting involved with drugs or alcohol.
- Manage their emotions better and are less likely to resort to violence.
Today your baby may reward your efforts with a belly laugh or a hug. But in the long run, staying involved will reap the much larger reward of a healthy, happy child.
Reviewed 3/5/2024