Best Ways to Help Out as a New Dad

Everyone always talks about “a mother's instincts” and how “mother knows best,” but what about Dad? Being a dad to a newborn baby is confusing, stressful, and can leave some lost. But here are a couple things you can do to bond with your baby, and help momma out, too.

For the Baby Who Breastfeeds

This can be so tough, because sometimes you hear the baby cry and know that you can’t soothe them because you biologically are unable to. They wake up screaming to eat and all you can do is wake up your wife to go get the baby, right? Wrong! It may feel like you’re of no help, but there’s a lot you can do. Burping a baby when you’re a tired mom up every three hours is tough; maybe you can't feed the baby, but you can use those manly muscles to gently let out some burps and let Momma rest. Honestly, sometimes even being in the room with her can help show your support and shows you are trying.

For the Bottle Feeders

This is one that is usually more obvious: Pick. Up. The. Bottle. Yes, guys, it is possible for you to feed the baby, too! Not only is it possible, but this will help you create a bond with your baby and let you make memories of your own as well. For the men who work full time, you don’t always have to do it in the middle of the night if you work the entire day, but maybe when you come home from work, or on the weekends. Really, anytime that you can do it, just do it. And I’m sure Momma will appreciate the rest.

Keep Calm

A baby crying is stressful for everyone within earshot. Complaining about it or speaking with anger because of it doesn’t help anyone. Keeping calm is the best option you have. Like Bambi taught us, if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.

Diapers

For the love of all that is holy, please just change a diaper. Now, I have to admit, some guys are killing the game with this one, but some... not so much. A little tip: put the side with the tabs under baby's butt, put the front (there will usually be a picture and the size on the front) against them, and stick the tabs to the front of the diaper. If you notice any redness, tightness, or discomfort, it is too tight. If you experience leaks, it is too loose.

Support Momma

A massage, a smile, a compliment, or a hug: any way you see fit to help her know she is doing her best after one of the most life-changing events. You made a baby with her, so you should know how to make her smile. Try something, because the happier you make her, the easier it will be on both of you.

Last But Not Least, Don’t Miss Out

While having a newborn is stressful, it goes by quickly. Enjoy as many moments as you can. Of course there will be sleepless nights and poopy diapers, but nothing beats a first bath and first smile. These memories are beautiful so don’t forget to get the camera, and really focus, because this is what will get you through it.