Ten top tips for brand new dads
Supportive information and helpful hints for young fathers.
Article by : SpunOut.ie
“Being a dad is the best thing that’s happened to me, I said ‘Dadadada’ to Emily for months and when she finally did say ‘Dada’, that was just fantastic.”
- So, you’re a dad! Your life has changed. It can be exciting. It can be a bit frightening. It can be both of these and more. It can certainly be an amazing experience for you and your child. You’ll be learning lots of new stuff. It’s the same for any new dad. Parenthood is no walk in the park – it’s tough - babies either want to be fed, have their nappy changed, have their soother back or they want a cuddle. But don’t worry, you eventually learn what your baby want.
- Make time to spend with your new baby as she or he grows up. You’ll be glad now and in years to come. And so will your child. There are many ways to spend time with your baby and to show that you are interested in what s/he is doing. For instance, when your baby is very small, bath-time can be very special.
- Learn how to give your baby a massage.
- Talk to your baby’s mother about how much it’s actually costing her to provide for the baby. Babies are expensive so try and work out as best you can what’s a fair amount for you to contribute every week. Treoir has a sample “Expenses Sheet” to help with this that can be downloaded from www.Treoir.ie or from LoCall 1890 252 084.
- Don't smoke in front of your baby.
- Manage your drinking as looking after a baby with a hangover is dangerous and not at all pleasant.
- Baby carriers that you can strap onto your front are brilliant. Your baby can feel your warmth and hear your voice and the rocking movement while you move is very soothing.
- And, if you have a car, don’t forget - get that baby seat for the car sooner rather than later.
- Sorry Dad, if you are working, no paid Paternity Leave for you. There is Parental Leave but it is unpaid. Each parent is entitled to 14 weeks unpaid Parental Leave which must be taken before the child is 8 (or 16 if the child has a disability). Contact the Equality Authority: LoCall 1890 245 545, www.equality.ie for more information.
- All children need lots of love and support. You, as Dad, play a big part in providing that love and support. Where Dads take an interest in their children’s lives, they are telling them they are valued, cared for and important. Spending time with your children gives them a better chance of growing up to be happy adults.
“Babies are productive members of society. They spread optimism and good cheer more effectively than any adult. Help them do their work” Alan (Father of a 6 year old)
Content developed by Treoir the National Information Centre for Unmarried Parents.
For further supportive information, please contact Treoir on:
LoCall: 1890252084
Tel: 01–6700 120
Email: info@treoir.ie.
Your Comments
There are no comments for this article yet, please leave one!
Login to leave a comment on this article
Login | Sign Up