If you’re here because you’ve just become a father, then congratulations are in order! Although this is one of the most exciting and memorable moments of your life, it can also be a scary and nerve-wracking adventure.
I you thought preparing for fatherhood was tough, being a father is tougher!
You probably had no idea about how to take care of a baby until now. But worry not! We’ve rounded up some survival tips to help you get through your first few months of fatherhood with flying colors.
Tips to Survive the First Few Months of Fatherhood
Create a Routine
If your baby hasn’t been born yet, then you better gear up because the next few months are going to be a roller coaster ride! If your baby’s already born, then you probably already knew that. These next months are going to be your busiest yet, which is why it’s highly important for you to establish a routine early on!
Create a strict schedule for your baby’s feeding, sleep, and quality time — as well as yours! Remember to plot in some time for you to take breaks, a quick nap, or anything to rejuvenate your energy.
Typically, a baby’s routine will be well-established in their third month. Before that, it might be hard to stick to a schedule. But do your best to stick to a routine that balances your fatherhood priorities as well as your own personal time.
Learn All About Caring for the Baby
Taking care of a baby is not something to be taken lightly. The first few months of fatherhood will feel as if you hopped back to school, so you’re going to need a crash course on it. Spend a few weeks learning about the best practices in raising a child, particularly during the first year.
Here are some things you’ll need to know to help get you started:
- During the first few months, you have to recreate their life in the womb to give them comfort. This can be done by swaddling them and providing skin-to-skin contact.
- A tip to address crying is to hold the baby in your arms in a way that they are faced down or on their side. Conduct a little swaying along with shushing noises to calm them down.
- Be aware of the warning signs that you have to take your baby to the doctor. These can include yellow or pale skin, a fever, redness and irritation, no stool for at least 48 hours, and vomiting.
It will also be helpful to read the guidelines given to you by the hospital and birthing classes or to scan books about taking care of a baby.
Spend Quality Time with Your Family
Time is a luxury during the first few months of fatherhood. Make sure you spend time with your wife and newborn child as much as you can. Establishing a bond early on will help you become a tight-knit family.
Take Care of Yourself
This phase of your life can be physically, emotionally, and mentally draining. It’s important that parents keep their own health and wellness in check despite the rollercoaster ride of raising a child.
Take some time off, be aware of your mental and physical health, and get as much sleep as you can.
Conclusion
The first few months of fatherhood are going to be very overwhelming. But it’s an endeavor that you can surely conquer. Just remember that this is an exciting blessing, so cherish the moment and embrace the joys and challenges that come with fatherhood.