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Baby’s first form of communication is through touch. Babies are usually laid on mom’s tummy before given to anyone else. Mom then touches baby and coos soothing words before baby is taken off by a nurse. Sometimes dad doesn’t even get a chance to hold baby before she is carried off for a check-up, cleaning, and dressing so she can be brought back to mom’s room. Mothers have the most opportunities for bonding as they are generally the main caregiver for baby, especially if mom is breastfeeding. Sometimes dad even feels left out, especially first time dads. Today, more and more dads want a more significant role in their baby’s life. Occasionally you will find dad staying home with baby, and mom working. It’s important for mom to give dad the opportunity to be close to and bond with baby. When dad decides to be hands-on, he should be prepared to do all things related to caring for baby – even the dirty diaper things. Dad can do several things to aid the bonding process with baby – allow skin to skin contact in a warm, comfortable room or under a blanket; feed baby; rock baby to sleep; and learn to massage baby. Not only will massaging aid in bonding, it will also relax baby and allow her to release tension built up during the day. Furthermore, touch helps mental and physical growth and well-being. The simple concept of touch, while not readily understood by baby, will begin building trust between baby and dad. Other benefits of massage include improved circulation and relieve from discomfort due to constipation and indigestion. It also helps strengthen baby’s bones. As baby grows, dad can play on the floor with baby, carry baby on outings, participate in doctor’s visits and all the other things often relegated to moms. There is no longer any reason for dad to believe he is only there to support mom, but dads should become more involved in the day to day lives of babies. Learn more about fussy newborn at our baby care website.
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