It’s been absolutely amazing watching my husband turn into a dad. It’s just another added bonus of motherhood—not only did I turn into a mom, but he turned into a dad!
One thing I’ve noticed since becoming a parent is how much society talks about how hard it is to be a new mom. And yes, it certainly is. One of the hardest things of my entire life. But what about all the dads out there? Bonding with a baby comes naturally to women, but not necessarily for men, and that’s perfectly okay. It takes time for both moms and dads to semi know what they are doing.
After a few months of fatherhood, I asked my husband what are some of his favorite things to do to bond and connect with our baby? I compiled a list of his favorite things to keep her happy and to connect with her.
5 simple ways dads can bond with baby!
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1. The “Magic Baby Hold”
Sometimes, babies just want their mamas. And they will cry and cry and cry until they get her. My baby is currently all-about-her-mama, and I love this—most of the time:) but sometimes I need to get a few things done and I need her to be content with daddy! One day he tried the “magic baby hold” with her and we were amazed! Sometimes it’s the only thing that will calm her down when I’m not around. Find out how to do it here!
(I found out about the magic baby hold through the La Leche League– a breastfeeding support group. Read more about my breastfeeding tips here!)
My little one isn’t a snuggler. And as hard as it is, I have tried to accept this fact. However, one thing that she does love doing is bouncing! My husband puts her on his knee and he bounces on a ball. Sometimes when she screams this is the only thing that will calm her down. We use a simple exercise ball purchased from amazon. Best 10$ ever spent.
Exercise Ball with hand pump
Nothing melts my heart more than this. A daddy dancing with his baby girl around the house. Ah, bliss.
4. The Lion King
I don’t even think I have to explain this.
Okay, so this one may be rather obvious. But, we try to make it a priority for my husband to read to our baby at least once a day. I can certainly read to her as well, but since he isn’t feeding her yet, this is one special thing for him and her to share together. There is so much research out there on how important it is to read to newborns, so please make sure you are doing it if you aren’t already. Sorry, thats the teacher in me.
What are your favorite ways for dads to bond with baby?
I’d love to know!