How to Help Fathers Feel Closer to their Babies

In a 2008 survey, the U.S. Census Bureau estimated there were over 70 million fathers in America. This figure includes dads with kids of all ages -- including new babies. Although it's the mother who spends nine months carrying her developing child, dads are an equally important part of parenting. If your husband or partner is struggling to bond with his new baby, you can help the new dad to feel closer to his bundle of joy.

Instructions

    • 1

      Involve dad in the birthing process. Start in the beginning and have the father of your child help you to create your birth plan, remain present in the labor-and-delivery room and stay in the hospital with you to help care for the baby.

    • 2

      Support the new dad in adjusting his priorities. Have him, if possible, take some time off work after the baby's birth to bond with his new child. If dad can't take time off from work, make sure there are plenty of times when he is home for him to interact with the baby. For example, instead of taking the baby grocery shopping with you on a Saturday afternoon, turn it into a family affair where you all go together or have dad watch the baby while you go by yourself.

    • 3

      Encourage dad to become more interactive with his child. Give your baby's father ideas on how he can spend some quality play time with his new little one -- such as singing, rocking or playing peek-a-boo. For example, let dad have the comfy glider or rocker while he reads a board book or a classic tale to his new tot.

    • 4

      Let dad take over some of the baby-care activities, such as feeding, diapering and bathing. For example, give a new father the chance to bond with his baby by asking him to bottle feed the baby -- using either formula or pumped breast milk, depending on your choices.

    • 5

      Hand the baby over to dad during a day out. Strap a front-facing baby carrier onto dad, letting him bond with his infant as he takes a walk around the park, goes grocery shopping or spends an afternoon at the mall with his family.

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