The transition into life as a new parent is huge- especially for new fathers. Think about it…a new mother spends 9 months bonding with the child in her womb. This time helps mothers to prepare and to ease them into this new role and responsibility. Dads don’t have the same experience. New dads start their role as a father cold-turkey, the day the baby is born. Scary, isn’t it?!
So how can we support our husbands in their new role as fathers? Here are 5 practical ways to build up confidence in our men and help ease the transition into a new life with baby.
When my husband and I first got married (and while we were dating), we had no idea how much free time we had on our hands. We took for granted going out with friends, taking day trips, and tackling household projects quickly and efficiently. More than anything, we took for granted having the energy for these activities.
In September of 2015, our lives changed forever when we welcomed our first baby boy into the world. They say that having a baby changes things, but it isn’t until you hold your child in your arms that you truly understand just how much. Late-night feedings and diaper blowouts became the norm, and sleeping in became a distant memory. We knew more than we ever wanted to know about baby Tylenol dosages and nose-frida’s. Despite this, we were happier than we had ever been. We were overwhelmed by an all-consuming love for our little guy. Fast forward two and a half years, and we are getting ready to do it all over again with baby #2!