Embracing Fatherhood: A Practical Guide for New Dads
A baby changes everything—sleep patterns, priorities, even your sense of self. This pocket‑sized guide distils the essentials so you can enjoy the ride and be the dad you want to be.
- Bond early. Skin‑to‑skin, eye contact and your voice wire a baby’s brain for trust.
- Share the load. Small acts—diaper duty, night feeds—mean big relief for your partner.
- Protect your energy. Good food, quick workouts and downtime make you a better dad.
- Ask for help. Postnatal blues hit dads too; talking beats toughing it out.
Before Baby Arrives
Parenthood starts long before delivery day…
- Attend antenatal classes.
- Batch‑cook freezable meals.
- Check your parental‑leave policy.
First Weeks at Home
Sleep will be patchy, emotions high…
Quick Wins
- Do one night feed so your partner sleeps a full cycle.
- Master the football hold for comfy bottle‑feeding.
- Tuck a clean onesie under the bassinet—speedy outfit change.
Bonding & Brain Growth
A father’s voice and touch activate different brain areas…
- Talk & sing. Babies prefer voices they hear often.
- Skin‑to‑skin. Regulates baby’s heartbeat and yours.
- Movement. Gentle rocking or a carrier walk calms fussiness.
Dad, Look After Dad
Exhaustion and hormonal shifts can trigger postnatal depression in men…
- 30‑minute naps beat coffee after a 3 a.m. feed.
- Short workouts release endorphins.
- Stay social: video‑call friends during stroller walks.