6 Things You Learn In Your First Week As A New Dad

Becoming a dad is an exciting experience, but it can be very scary. The last few days of pregnancy and the first few days of fatherhood are spent wondering what to do and how to do it. Here are some things that you will learn as a new father.

Your Babies Body Language

Babies often act a certain way each time they need something. After the first few days, you may be able to know what your baby wants from their body language. If you pay attention to the tone of their voice when they cry and connect it to what they want, you might be able to identify a pattern that will make it easier for you in the future.

How to Change a Nappy

Even though babies are very small, they need to change their nappy about 10 times a day. You will change their nappy so many times that you will become a master. There are a few items that you will need to have with you when changing a nappy. You’ll obviously need a fresh nappy, warm water, a piece of cotton or cloth, baby wipes, new clothes (if necessary), and barrier cream. Dispose of the dirty nappy, cotton, and wipes in a plastic bag.

Babies Sleep a Lot

If you have noticed that your baby spends most of their time sleeping, it’s nothing to worry about. New-born babies normally sleep most of the time and almost only wake up to feed, unless they are sick. It is best that you take a look at portable crib reviews to know more about the different models that you can purchase for your newborn. You will need a fitting crib for when you travel or go out, and you’ll need space for the baby to sleep comfortably and safely.

How to Burp a Baby

It’s important to burp your baby after each time he feeds. You need to burp your baby to get rid of the air he swallowed while feeding. If you don’t do so, he will seem cranky or gassy and might spit-up. You should hold your baby and repeatedly pat his back gently, cup your hands a little because it is more gentle on the baby’s back than a flat hand. You should place a towel or bib on your shoulder under the baby’s chin, in case they spit up or have wet burps. This is something you will quickly learn as a new dad because you will need to do it often.

It’s Best To Limit Visits

In that first week, you will learn that doorbells and visitors are not friends with your baby. Every time the doorbell rings while your baby is sleeping it wakes them up, and if they are already awake they might start crying. Not to mention that the doorbell could also wake you up. If you’re accepting visitors, the baby may not be comfortable around too many people he doesn’t recognize. You will learn that it is best to limit visits as much as possible to have some privacy and to avoid feeling pressured. You should also put a sign that informs whoever’s at the door to not ring the doorbell.

It’s Okay To Ask For help

Now is the time that you will learn that it’s fine to ask for and accept whatever help you can get. Handling a newborn can be hard, especially as a new dad. Now is the time to ask for help taking care of the baby. You can ask your parents, your siblings, or a trusted and responsible friend to look after your baby while you go to work or simply to take a break. You will learn that sometimes a little help will guarantee you having enough sleep and will allow you to go to work on days that your partner is not capable of attending to the baby. You will need help learning how to handle the baby, how to feed him, how to change his nappy and how to get him to go to sleep. You should ask your parents, a relative, or a friend who has kids to help you out and tell you what you’re supposed to do.

Being a father is a blessing and one of the best feelings you can possibly experience. You shouldn’t always be worried that you’re not doing enough, you’re probably doing the best you can. Don’t be shy to ask for help or to let people know that now isn’t the best time to have them over.