Becoming a father is likely to be one of the biggest events of your life. Using your free time from work to get to know your child is a great way to jump-start your parenting life. You may also be tempted to do a few chores around the house. However, there is a big payoff in the long run if you use this time to start a relationship with your child. But if you’re experiencing strong emotions, not to mention the lack of sleep that often comes with a new baby, you may be wondering where to start and what to do. Perhaps you even think that your partner has already provided everything, and are not sure what else you have to do.
In fact, as a father, you will have a huge impact on your child’s life. And that influence is starting now. Newborns are born ready to communicate with both parents. Join hands from the start. Participating in daily baby care – dressing, laying down, playing, bathing and changing diapers – is the best way to develop your skills and self-confidence. These daily activities also create a lot of one-on-one time with your child, which is the building block of a positive relationship. Another benefit is that the other parent of your child also benefits from having a break. Learn your baby’s signals. Babies give “cues” or signals about what they need through their behavior and body language.
By really paying attention to your child’s signals, over time you will learn to understand what he needs. Communication through touch. Physical touch makes your child feel secure and builds trust and bond with you. This connection with newborns also stimulates the development of your baby’s brain. You can try to carry and hold your baby as often as possible. If you press her to your chest, she will hear your heartbeat.