It is always a great time to think about ways dads can connect and bond with their newborns. Often, fathers may feel excluded from the bonding process in the weeks following birth, as mothers typically spend more time with the babies by their side. Bonding with newborns can be challenging for dads, and adjusting to the new life of being a dad may take time, which is okay.
The bonding process can be pretty challenging and may lead to feelings of anxiety. However, starting early can ease that worry by initiating the bonding experience while the baby is still in the womb. Engaging in activities like talking, reading, and singing to your baby while in the womb will help them recognize voices after birth, creating a sense of comfort for the baby and both mom and dad. Although it might initially feel silly, it will become more natural over time and help establish a special daddy-and-me routine.
After childbirth, fathers can bond with their baby in several ways and, in the process, help mom to rest and heal. Bonding is a gradual process that develops over time, so it's important to fully engage right from the start. Skin-to-skin cuddle time isn't just for moms anymore; dad's cuddle time is equally comforting for both the baby and himself. It is important to continue talking, reading, and singing in a calm and natural tone throughout the day, as this helps with brain development. Playtime is a great time, and by mirroring their movements and mimicking their coos, dads are taking the initial steps to communicating with the baby.
Dads, creating a home routine with your newborn can be difficult after a long day at work. Shifting from your work life to home life requires some adjustment to be fully present with your baby. Dividing daily tasks with Mom can aid in establishing a consistent routine. Setting a daily schedule for diaper changes, bath time, bedtime, and nighttime feedings will provide both parents with individual bonding moments as well as rest time.
The initial months of parenthood can feel overwhelming, but support is available. The Victoria County Public Health Department, in collaboration with the South Texas Assessment and Referral Services Clinic (STARS), is offering the Family Connects program. This initiative allows every mom and dad the opportunity to have a registered nurse visit their home three weeks postpartum.
Family Connects registered nurses offer guidance to the entire family and are trained to address various questions that arise with the arrival of a newborn. A few ways the nurses can address your family's needs are by baby weight checks, mom health checks, dad tips, breast and bottle feeding help, postpartum depression screenings, childcare options, help with bathing, diapering and swaddling techniques, safe sleep information, management of infant crying, family planning advice, and help with scheduling doctor appointments.
Whether you are a new or experienced parent, consider an in-home nurse visit courtesy of Family Connects of Victoria County. To schedule an appointment or learn more information, please call the STARS Clinic at 361-575-0681 or visit us online at vcphd.org.
Angie Stafford is the TX Home Visiting Program manager at the Victoria County Public Health Department. Angie oversees two TX Home Visiting programs within Victoria County: Parents as Teachers and Family Connects—which are designed to build stronger parent child interaction and minimize abuse and neglect.
