Real Clever Moms

A lot of first-time dads feel a little awkward when it comes to spending time with their new baby. Often, dad seems to get pushed a little to the side while mom and baby take center stage. It’s hard for a dad to know what to do in this situation and sometimes it may seem he’s not too interested in the new baby. In reality, he may just be experiencing a case of anxiety or not know what to do.

You can help build up your partner’s confidence by slowly allowing him to do more things for the baby, or simply let dad and baby spend quality uninterrupted time together. Unless your baby is in harm try not to interfere when your husband does something a little differently than you would. This will chip at his confidence as a new father.

Here are a few activities Daddy and Baby can share together:

Bath Time – Let your husband bathe the baby. This is a great time for dad and baby to bond and will give you some much needed rest too. It can be stressful to hold a slippery baby in a tub full of water, so be sure to use a small bath basin or baby bathtub.

Diaper Changing – You probably won’t mind if your partner helps with this one. It’s also a great way for dad to gain confidence in caring for and looking after baby.

Sofa Time – Have you noticed dads love to lounge on their sofas with their kids? Give your husband some time to watch the game or listen to music while laying with baby on the sofa. This can make for great bonding time and will give you some free time for a quick nap or bath.

Feeding – If you’re nursing this will be a little difficult, especially if you don’t want baby to have a bottle. If you don’t mind, you can always try pumping one bottle a day and letting dad do the evening feed. As soon as baby is ready for solids, let dad get involved then. If you’re bottle feeding, take turns during the night time feeds. This will allow both of you to get a little more rest.

Going for Walks – Some new moms may feel a little nervous when their husbands go out alone with baby, but you should trust that your partner will care for your child just as well as you would. Taking baby for a walk will give him added confidence in his new role as a dad, and in his parenting skills. He’ll be out on his own and ultimately responsible for all of baby’s needs. Be sure that baby is fed just before the walk, and that dad has at least a burp cloth or some wipes, in case baby spits up.

Just about any time when your husband and baby can get some free time together will help build and establish the very important father-baby bond. Try to encourage your partner and praise his parenting skills. Newborns don’t come with instruction manuals and it’s normal to make little mistakes here and there, so don’t let your partner become discouraged if he feels he’s make a mistake.

Above all, be happy that your husband and baby are spending quality time together!