Dads and their babies. An important relationship that is often forgotten or ignored in this mom-centric culture of pregnancy and motherhood, “mommy wars”, and attachment parenting.
Dads are worried about how they’ll bond with the baby, if the mother is breastfeeding the newborn. As if feeding were ultimately only about bonding (it’s not!) and as if it were the only parenting that needs to happen with a new baby (it’s not!). There are so many ways for the parent who isn’t breastfeeding to help with the baby and connect and bond with their child. If the breastfeeding mom is happy with the way things are going, there is no reason to interrupt the feeding at the breast in order for someone else to feed the baby simply for “bonding”. I’ve got so many other great, and helpful, ideas for ways that dads, co-parents, and grandparents can help out with the baby while also creating a great bond.
1- BATHING AND CHANGING THE BABY
Now, I know this isn’t the most glamorous job, but it’s an amazing opportunity to be close with your baby. There’s nothing like a little poop between father and son, right? In all seriousness, being the official Bather of Baby is a big responsibility and a wonderful way to spend some quiet and tender time with your baby. In our house, bath time is Daddy time and our kids love it. During the newborn stage, dads learn how to carefully handle their baby, prepare all the bathing necessities, and as the kids get older the playful, bonding time in the evening is just what they need.
2- WEARING THE BABY
Photo- popsugar.com
Yes, I’m bringing up babywearing again. But, trust me- it’s the best! And it’s not just for moms. Dads can wear their baby too and it’s a perfect way to keep baby close, get baby to sleep if you’re having trouble or you’re on the go, and babies love snuggling in to a nice fuzzy chest. Did I mention that word on the street is that dads who babywear are known as sensitive, loving and super hot?! My husband couldn’t get to the grocery store and back without at least 3 women stopping to coo at him with our baby in the carrier.
3- RUNNING ERRANDS WITH BABY
So this one might be a bit less about bonding with baby and a little more about giving mom a break- but it’s true. Packing the diaper bag, knowing what to bring to provide for baby while you’re out, and heading out with the baby for an hour or two so mom can shower or sleep in is true bonding. Spending time alone with your baby, whether it’s on a walk around the neighborhood with the stroller, meeting with your dad friends, or just picking up some food for Sunday brunch, you and your little sidekick will be best buddies in no time!
These are just a few ideas for ways to bond with your baby that don’t involve feeding the baby. ANYONE can do any of these activities with baby to get closer and connect. Do you have any other great suggestions?
