Dads and partners play a crucial role in the arrival of a new baby. For new mums it can feel overwhelming to suddenly have this tiny human who is completely dependant on you for literally every need they have. So as dads and partners you need to make sure that mum is looked after first and foremost. However it’s still important to make sure you have time to bond with your new baby too.
In this week’s blog we’re looking at some wonderful ways you can help to strengthen the bond with your newborn.
Skin-to-skin contact
One of the most powerful ways to bond with your newborn is through skin-to-skin contact. Strip down to your shirt, cuddle up, and let your baby feel the warmth of your skin. This not only promotes bonding but also has numerous health benefits for your little one including helping to regulate their body temperature, stabilising their heart rate and breathing and stimulating brain development.
Feeding Time Connection
If your partner is breastfeeding, you can still be an active participant during feeding time. You can support your partner by bringing water or snacks and making sure the remote control is within reach! You can also engage with your baby with gentle touch. If you’re bottle feeding this is a perfect opportunity to bond with your baby.
Baby Wearing
Investing in a good baby carrier means you can have close contact with your baby when you’re out and about which means extra bonding opportunities for you.
Nappy changing
Nappy changes are a great bonding opportunity with your baby. You can make eye contact, talk to them, sing to them and keep them smiling especially if nappy changes aren’t their favourite activity!
Storytime
Reading to your newborn is a lovely way to bond with them. They won’t understand what you’re saying yet but they’ll enjoy hearing your voice and as they get older they’ll like the bright colours in children’s books.
Baby Massage
Baby massage is a great way to bond with your little one and also has a host of benefits for your baby too including helping with sleep and digestion. It also has a calming effect on babies.
Dancing
Put some music on and enjoy swaying and rocking your baby to the beat! Your baby will enjoy the movements and it’s a great way to introduce them to some of your favourite tunes!
It can be hard feeling like you’re the secondary parent in the early days but these small bonding opportunities will help strengthen the bond with your baby that will last a lifetime.