Raising Children Network: the Australian parenting website
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Fathers: getting to know your baby

By Ngala, Hey Dad WA
 
 

During pregnancy and birth, some fathers can find it difficult to form a relationship with their baby. Once your baby arrives, you can form a bond by being involved in daily care activities and breastfeeding.

did you knowQuestion mark symbol

Research into breastfeeding shows that:

  • mothers are more likely to continue breastfeeding if the father is supportive.
  • the antibodies in breastmilk protect against upper respiratory and ear infection, which is very common in babies.
  • women who breastfeed have a lower rate of breast cancer.
 

Bonding through daily care

Fathers can do many things to assist in building relationships with their babies. For example, bathing your baby can really assist with bonding and help you learn your baby's language. Changing nappies, despite the sight and smell, is a great way to develop a strong physical and emotional relationship with your child. You can also cuddle your baby while he’s awake, and play simple games with him – even if he’s only a few days old.

Supporting breastfeeding

If their partners are breastfeeding, some fathers can find that bonding with their baby takes longer. But you can become involved in the process of breastfeeding by supporting your partner. If you want to give your child a great start in life and your partner can breastfeed, your encouragement can make a big difference.

If you feel that the breastfeeding is impacting on your relationship with your partner, talk to each other about it. If your family is having difficulties with breastfeeding, you can speak to:

  • the maternity hospital you attended
  • the local Child Health Nurse
  • the Australian Breastfeeding Association.

Dads report that when they are able to talk about their feelings with their partners, they are able to deal with breastfeeding issues in a helpful way.