If you are a new dad and you are looking for ways that you can bond with your newborn, you will want to check out the following 5 tips that will just help you to develop that special connection (almost similar to the natural bonding that most mothers are having).
1 – Get Started Before Your Child Is Born
Studies show that when fathers-to-be sing and talk to their partner’s stomach, newborns will have a better chance at recognizing Dad’s voice later on. So spend some time serenading and talking to your unborn child, developing a bond that will continue naturally after birth. If you can’t find a topic, you can start with sharing the little happenings in your life and what’s on the TV.
2 – Do Some Reading
There is a wealth of information out there about pregnancy, newborns and becoming a father. So start doing some research through books, videos or from friends. You can strengthen the bond between you and your baby by simply learning everything there is to know about the pregnancy process, birth, newborns and toddlers.
3 – Be Supportive of the Mother-to-Be
Attend breastfeeding classes with the mother of your child. Sign up for classes on how to ensure smooth delivery and how to bathe. Go with her to appointments with her obstetrician. Support her desire to have an ultrasound and take the chance to listen to the heartbeat. When you show that you are totally involved in the whole birth process (bring some tissues on that day), the mother of your baby will be much more likely to get you involved in the child raising process later on.
4 – Stop Worrying and Just Be Yourself
It is understandable that you might be freaking out if this is your first child. But you need to stop worrying about every little detail. Billions of children have been raised by men just like yourself. These men were uncertain, unsure, frightened and scared that they may do something wrong while raising their children.
You are not the first newborn’s father to be concerned about the enormity of the job at hand. Calm down, stop worrying and just be yourself to form a natural bond with your baby. Do not give yourself any deadline to form this bond or compare yourself with others.
5 – Be a Part of the Feeding Process
Even when your child’s mother is breastfeeding your baby, you need to be involved (especially on the burping). You also need to take over some of the highchair feeding sessions. These are precious times for bonding. Make eye contact, make noises, talk to your child and let your child get to know your face in connection with meal time. Your child learns a lot more than just how to eat during the feeding process, and you need to be a part of it.