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Advice for new dadsA new baby is an exciting time for everyone in the family, but in all the fuss over mum and baby, poor old dad can end up feeling a little bit left out. Becoming a father, though - particularly for the first time - is a life changing event, so don't be surprised if it takes a bit of getting used to. Here are some tips to help deal with the new arrival. |
Take time to get to know the new babyMuch is made of the importance of mother-baby "bonding" time, but dad's also need time to get to know the newest member of the family, so don't be afraid to claim some "alone time" with your son or daughter. Bath-time is a great opportunity for some fun and games - for both father and baby - and an excellent opportunity to bond. Baby toys and rattles which are suitable for use the water can make bath time even more rewarding. |
Help out in practical waysYou may not be able to breastfeed, but you can help with almost everything else the new baby might need. In particular, practical help with setting up the baby's room will be greatly appreciated, as it's something mum may not feel up to in the days or weeks after the birth. Luckily the wide range of home décor for children available can help make this a pleasure rather than a chore, and soon you'll have a room that's fit for a little prince or princess. |
Look after the new mumHowever tired and daunted you may be feeling, remember that your partner will be feeling much worse! Her body is still recovering from pregnancy and childbirth, so she'll need extra help around the house, and some time to herself to relax and get used to the huge change in her life. Buy her some <actinic:variable name="LINKTO" /> relax and rejuvenate her, and offer to look after the baby while she takes a long soak. |
Look after yourselfYou'll be no good to anyone if you're tired and stressed out, and in the early days at least, don't be surprised if that's exactly how you feel! New dads tend to go back to work much sooner than new mums do, so you may be juggling work issues while struggling to get used to the change in your home life, too. Even if it's hard to find the time, try to grab at least a few minutes to yourself to unwind - some Special Dad Luxury Bath Oil will help you do it! |
Enjoy yourself!Even although welcoming a new baby into the family isn't always easy, it's one of the happiest and most exciting times of your life, so make the most of it and enjoy your new status as "dad". A <actinic:variable name="LINKWILL" /> make sure everyone knows about your new arrival - and everyone will help you celebrate it! If you don't feel like wearing your new "name" on your chest, of course, some cufflinks with your baby's fingerprints engraved on them make a lovely and unique way to keep your new arrival close to your heart throughout the working day. |
