Dad: Beliefs and Truths Myth 2
Posted: January 19, 2008Myth 2: Newborns do not need their fathers.
The intense connection between your partner and newborn - especially if they’re breastfeeding - can leave you wondering whether your baby really needs you. Rest assured he does. You’re an important person in his life, and being with you is comforting and soothing to him. To bond with your baby, hold, rock, and coo at him, but wait until after he eats so you’ll have his full attention. Taking over after a meal also gives your partner a chance to recoup her energy after breastfeeding.
You can help feed your baby if your partner expresses milk into a bottle or if you decide to supplement breastfeeding with occasional formula feeding. And you can help your baby indirectly by helping your partner around the house. Lightening her workload is nurturing for her and allows her more relaxed time with the baby. Remember, you make a difference to the whole family.
