How Fathers Can Prepare For Their New Arrival
Dads these days are very involved with their babies. From conception to arrival, new born to toddler - at all stages - Dads can be hands-on and helpful.
And while the male of the species may not be able to share the magic of a growing belly or really understand what it all feels like to give birth, there is plenty they can do during pregnancy to help prepare for their new arrival.
Here are some suggestions on how to prepare for a new arrival as a father...
Prepare the nursery
This is an obvious task. Whether you are redecorating a corner of your room for baby, or giving a spare room the complete makeover, it's never too early to start decorating. You want there to be no lingering fumes when baby arrives so don't leave it until the contractions start. Get down to that DIY store now!
Security check
Ok we're not talking cameras and alarms so much as securing heavy objects which could be toppled over, padding sharp corners, covering electric sockets and buying gates for staircases. Your baby may be tiny at first, but will soon be crawling and finding all the danger zones in your home.
Pamper you partner
One of your key roles in pregnancy is to make your partner's life easier. If that means getting up in the middle of the night to prepare (or shop for) a bowl of ice cream then so be it. Give her massages, take on the lion's share of the housework, and generally be the perfect partner. And NEVER make a comment about how much you are helping around the house.
Hone your listening talents
If she wants to bend your ear about sickness, weight gain, backache, baby fears, baby names, baby or pregnancy clothes or anything else, listen to her. But also bear in mind that sometimes she may actually want to listen to (or talk about) other topics.
Prepare for the future
You should already have done this, but if you haven't then now is the time to draw up a will and check that all your life insurance policies are up to date.
Develop thick skin
Pregnancy hormones can cause mood swings so be prepared to be shouted at or blamed for things and try hard not to react. Don't worry it won't last.
Be supportive
Your partner has had to give up alcohol so maybe you could give it up too to show your support?
Take her lead on sex
Your partner may or may not be interested in sex at some stages (or for all) of her pregnancy. Talk to each other, see if you can find a compromise, maybe a new position that is more comfortable. Or show your affection for each other in a different way. A hug and a kiss and cuddle will demonstrate your love. If she is shunning you because she feels unattractive then it is your job to ensure she feels beautiful and desired.
Prepare for your newborn coming home
You'll be amazed those first few days and weeks how having a newborn baby at home fills your entire day and most of your night. Prepare in practical ways like stocking up on home essentials (toilet rolls, toothpaste, shampoo etc.) and stocking the freezer with easy-to-heat nutritious meals.
And while the male of the species may not be able to share the magic of a growing belly or really understand what it all feels like to give birth, there is plenty they can do during pregnancy to help prepare for their new arrival.
Here are some suggestions on how to prepare for a new arrival as a father...
Prepare the nursery
This is an obvious task. Whether you are redecorating a corner of your room for baby, or giving a spare room the complete makeover, it's never too early to start decorating. You want there to be no lingering fumes when baby arrives so don't leave it until the contractions start. Get down to that DIY store now!
Security check
Ok we're not talking cameras and alarms so much as securing heavy objects which could be toppled over, padding sharp corners, covering electric sockets and buying gates for staircases. Your baby may be tiny at first, but will soon be crawling and finding all the danger zones in your home.
Pamper you partner
One of your key roles in pregnancy is to make your partner's life easier. If that means getting up in the middle of the night to prepare (or shop for) a bowl of ice cream then so be it. Give her massages, take on the lion's share of the housework, and generally be the perfect partner. And NEVER make a comment about how much you are helping around the house.
Hone your listening talents
If she wants to bend your ear about sickness, weight gain, backache, baby fears, baby names, baby or pregnancy clothes or anything else, listen to her. But also bear in mind that sometimes she may actually want to listen to (or talk about) other topics.
Prepare for the future
You should already have done this, but if you haven't then now is the time to draw up a will and check that all your life insurance policies are up to date.
Develop thick skin
Pregnancy hormones can cause mood swings so be prepared to be shouted at or blamed for things and try hard not to react. Don't worry it won't last.
Be supportive
Your partner has had to give up alcohol so maybe you could give it up too to show your support?
Take her lead on sex
Your partner may or may not be interested in sex at some stages (or for all) of her pregnancy. Talk to each other, see if you can find a compromise, maybe a new position that is more comfortable. Or show your affection for each other in a different way. A hug and a kiss and cuddle will demonstrate your love. If she is shunning you because she feels unattractive then it is your job to ensure she feels beautiful and desired.
Prepare for your newborn coming home
You'll be amazed those first few days and weeks how having a newborn baby at home fills your entire day and most of your night. Prepare in practical ways like stocking up on home essentials (toilet rolls, toothpaste, shampoo etc.) and stocking the freezer with easy-to-heat nutritious meals.
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