When experts discuss bonding, they are talking to the close bond you form with your baby. It’s the emotion of the bond that drives you to want to smother him in adoration or run out in front of a speeding car to save him.
It may take a little while, but that’s completely normal. Some men bond with their infant within the first few minutes or days of birth. In any case, a brand-new infant has just fallen into your lap! Additionally, you might be aiding your partner’s recovery from childbirth, and it’s likely that you haven’t slept for longer than a few hours at a time. Take it easy on yourself; the connection will form soon enough.
Interacting early to bond
(Photo from istock.com)
The link between a father and his child can be strengthened by early connections between fathers and their new-borns. According to Dr. John Klaus and Phyllis Klaus’ book, “Your Amazing New-born,” fathers who have the chance to play with their new-born. And make eye contact in the first few hours after birth spend significantly more time with their children during the first three months than fathers who did not have this close connection. A great opportunity for fathers to spend this early bonding time with their new-borns is when the mother wakes up to take her first shower.
Bond skin to skin
The advantages of skin-to-skin contact with a baby are well established and include control of body temperature, stress reduction, blood sugar stabilization, release of oxytocin (the love hormone), comfort, and security. As soon as it makes sense, fathers can and ought to spend time holding their new-borns in their arms. It is a beautiful opportunity for both of them to profit from the oxytocin release that will take place for them to get comfy in a cozy chair with their shirt off, a nude baby on his chest, and both of them covered by a warm blanket. And is there really anything more pleasant to touch and smell than a new-born child?
Singing to baby to bond
There are several advantages to singing to your unborn child while she is still inside of you, as well as employing the same song to soothe and quiet the infant after birth. Fathers can select one or more particular songs and sing them to the unborn child often during pregnancy. After the baby is born, the father can continue to sing the special song to the unborn child. a fantastic chance for the two of them to connect and bond.
Bathing with the baby
Nothing makes new-borns happier than getting a bath while being safely cradled in a parent’s arms. Even though the majority of infants don’t need to be bathed frequently. Taking a body temperature bath with the baby on dad’s chest is a great way to unwind and strengthen the relationship. The parent can take a leisurely bath while concentrating on spending time with their infant while the baby feels safe. And comforted. Keep in mind: safety first! When entering and leaving the tub, always have a second adult nearby to take the infant. When wet, babies are slippery.
Reading to the baby to bond
Every day, fathers may find the time to read to their child. Even though a new-born or young child cannot yet understand words, they are intrigued by the sound of human voices and find great comfort in being held close while listening to their father’s voice, which is both safe and familiar. You can start reading more books with appealing graphics for young children when the baby becomes a little older.
Baby wearing
(Photo from istock.com)
Baby wearing is a wonderful way for fathers and children, including infants, to interact and form bonds. Most new-borns enjoy being worn, and when a father does it in a safe manner. It gives them the chance to further develop their bond. Furthermore, wearing a child makes it simple to go out in public. Perform jobs and duties around the house, or even work, depending on the sort of employment the father may have. Families should always make sure they are using a carrier safely, responsibly. And that it fits both the father and the infant well. There are many different types of carriers available on the market.
Exercising to bond
Fathers can discover methods to spend time with their infant and obtain the exercise they sorely need. When the baby is very small, walking with the infant in a pram or baby carrier is a wonderful method for parents to get some exercise and burn some calories. As the baby gets bigger, another option that enables dad to step up the pace is to place them in a kid seat on a bike. Use a jogging stroller or use a bike trailer. To avoid injuring the child, care should always be made to adhere to the equipment’s age/weight recommendations and operating instructions.
Greet your baby warmly
After a long day at work, getting home gives fathers a chance to bond with their child. Fathers may make a smooth transition from the workplace to the house. Take a moment to breathe deeply. And then get ready to be totally present with their child as soon as they come through the door. Having a particular greeting ritual. Receiving the child into your arms after a day (or night) of separation. And taking some time to reconnect may be a great opportunity for bonding and easing back into being at home with those you love.
Father and baby traditions to bond
Fathers may want to carry on the customs and unique activities they shared with their fathers when they were kids or think about creating some new ones. Children can spend meaningful time with their fathers by going to the donuts shop for Sunday morning treats. Watching a family movie on Friday night. Participating in various community activities, and going to athletic events. Do you remember the specific customs you shared with your father or other male role model. And could you carry them on or invent new ones for your own children?
References:
6 ways for dad to bond with the baby
Fun activities to do with your kids
