It is a common misconception in our society that dads tend to be more hands-off when it comes to babies. The ideas that men have no interest in bonding with baby until they are older or they only serve as disciplinarians and breadwinners are widespread but also patently false. Many men want to develop a strong bond with their child and support mother and baby in more than just monetary ways. All too often, the environment and the opportunity to facilitate dad bonding with baby does not exist to the extent that dad desires. Throughout the rest of this blog, we discuss things that can be done to help facilitate dad’s bonding with baby.
Experience and Learning
One of the many reasons dads are less likely to jump in and interact with the child is because they are often made to feel as if their thoughts on the subject are invalid. Many men just want to be treated like they know what they are doing (which in a lot of cases he does) and to be taught by you when they don’t rather than being pushed aside. It can also be very empowering when you take dad’s advice from time to time.
Take a Break
Another common hindrance to dad bonding with baby is the notion that mom needs to be on call 24/7. Similar to the last point, most men want to help when you are tired and would hope that you would ask for help when you need a break. However, it all starts with trusting in his ability to care for your child.
I Think We’re Alone Now
After the arrival of a new child, it is not uncommon for men to feel neglected in favor of the baby and some men even come to resent their baby for this reason. We aren’t talking about being intimate here but in more subtle ways like doing something special for him or carving out some alone time with him. Little things can go a long way.
Include Him
It may sound simple, but you may be surprised at the ways in which dad can be made to feel excluded from the special relationship you have with the baby. Little things like calling him “Dad” can help him in bonding with baby. It is also worthwhile to ask him about his concerns and truly listen to him as he responds.