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Becoming a new dad is both exciting and overwhelming! You’re about to embark on a journey that will change your life forever. To help you prepare for this new role, we have compiled a comprehensive new dad checklist that covers everything you need to handle before and after your baby arrives.
New Dad Checklist: Before the Baby Arrives
- Read up: Start reading books, articles, and blogs about parenting and newborn care. This will help you feel more confident and prepared when the baby arrives.
- Attend a birthing class: This will help you understand the labor and delivery process and how you can support your partner during this time.
- Take a newborn care course: Baby Care Classes are designed to help new dads learn the skills they need to take care of their newborn.
- Get involved: Attend doctor’s appointments with your partner, help with baby shower or nesting parting planning, and start preparing the nursery. Learn about creating an ideal sleep environment for your baby. Don’t wait until the last minute to figure out your new baby gear – practice setting up and breaking down the stroller, learn to buckle your baby correctly into their car seat, and practice babywearing. You can use a stuffed animal to practice!
- Set a good game plan: Discuss with your partner how you will share responsibilities and make sure you are both on the same page. Plan your paternity leave and future childcare. Build your support system and consider hiring professional support to help your family ease into this new season of life.
New Dad Checklist: After the Baby Arrives
- Learn how to care for your baby: Learn how to change diapers, bottle feed and/or help your partner get comfortable while nursing, burp your baby, soothe your baby, and put them to sleep safely.
- Help with household chores: If your partner is healing from birth, it’s important to take on more household chores so they can rest and heal.
- Take care of yourself: Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking care of your mental health.
- Nurture your relationship: The baby will take center stage, but that doesn’t mean your relationship with your partner isn’t still important. With the right intention, attention and support, having a baby can strengthen your relationship, not stress it.
- Connect with other new dads: Join a new dad’s group or connect with other new dads online. This will help you feel less isolated and provide you with a vital peer support system.
One Step at a Time
Becoming a new dad is an exciting and challenging time. Becoming a parent, with all of its associated new responsibilities, is a huge life change. Don’t add undue pressure on yourself – you can do this! And you deserve great support throughout this journey. By following this checklist, you can feel more prepared and confident in your new role. Remember to take it one day at a time and enjoy this special time with your new family.
