5 Things A New Dad Should Know About Baby Care

It is tough on a new mom because not only does she need to tend to the baby all day long (and even at night as the baby wakes up every few hours to feed) but also the new mother goes through a period of emotional turmoil due to all the physical and hormonal changes in her body and several moms also face post-partum depression.

Even though the doctor will try to make the situation better but significant help and support can come in only from the dad. You can help the mother feel reassured and confident by sharing responsibility and taking care of the baby and its needs.

How To Change A Baby's Diaper?

Even though changing your baby’s diaper might seem frightening at first, it is quite simple. Lay the baby down and untape the soiled diaper (don’t remove it yet). Take a washed cloth and clean the diaper area. Open the new diaper and gently lift the baby’s legs to slide out the soiled diaper; replace it with the new one (with the taped side underneath). Apply cream on the diaper area and then pull the diaper through the baby’s legs. Remove the tape on one side and tape it to the front, repeat the same with the other end; and you are done!

How to carry the baby?

Even though your baby won’t talk to you but you would be surprised at how a child (even a few weeks old) starts to respond on their own by eye contact or by listening intently; over a few weeks, you would create a deep bond by talking to the baby. Spend time with your child, talk to him animatedly or simply hold and cradle him close to you.

How to play and spend time with the baby?

How to put your baby to sleep?

Lookout for signs of sleepiness, like, yawning or staring into space and then soothe the child; try cradling him, rocking him from side to side, or simply holding him and walking slowly. Once you feel the baby is tired, lay him down; it is always great if you can lay down by his side as it is more effective in putting the baby to sleep.

How to burp the baby?

Burping the baby is essential because while feeding little bubbles of air become trapped in her stomach that make her feel uncomfortable. To burp the baby, hold her against your chest and support her head with your hand; with the other hand gently pat or rub her back.

New dads can also help the mother breastfeed the baby. Your attitude and support would mean a lot to your partner; you can give practical support by giving her another maternity or nursing pillow or a glass of water or whatever she needs. If she is facing a problem is breastfeeding, you can encourage her to talk about it or get help. If the baby is feeding through a bottle, new dads can help with that too.

Conclusion

Congratulations on becoming a father! Now that you have become a father you need to make a bond with your baby. We know it is going to be harder for you and might not have a clue about what to do. Create a routine before the baby's birth to get familiar with all the little baby's activities. Get to know how to carry a baby, change diapers and how to burp a baby. Your partner has done enough to give birth to a baby, now it’s time to share your responsibilities and make your partner feel happy and calm. Try to take night shift responsibilities so that the new mom gets enough rest.

Just be there for her and the baby and enjoy this wonderful journey of parenthood!

Shop all Baby Munkin essentials including BABY WIPES for an extra 10% off using code "NEWDAD"

We have a very special offer for you from our sister brand Baby Munkin, where we specialize in making baby friendly, poke free and eco-friendly diapers. You can shop them here.