Last Updated on: 23rd March 2024, 10:19 pm
First time dads around the world commonly have many misconceptions about maternity leave. Some just have ideas of endless nappy changes and lack of sleep where as others whilst others envision happier times playing the Xbox or watching endless boxsets.
Depending on your expectations, I maybe either giving you some good news or bad. You probably won’t have time to play Xbox in fact I doubt very much you’ll get a lot of sleep either.
Every few hours at least even throughout the night your baby will awaken for a feed. It’s tiring stuff.
Contrary to popular belief dads are natural caregivers, too. Providing this care to your baby helps strengthen an early bond, and your presence is likely a gift to your partner who is more than likely recovering. Let’s picture this though? You’re rocking your baby to sleep whilst mum grabs some Zzz’s. Perfect dad vibes.
One concern I often hear dads have is that it’s difficult to have time off work and worry they’ll fall behind. NEWSFLASH: the world won’t crumble with your absence. Most companies offer some form of paternity leave, and I’m pretty sure the company won’t collapse without you for a couple of weeks.
The first few weeks of a baby’s life are especially magical so you should definitely not miss a single second.
Yes, you will have to help with the nappy changes and midnight feeds but these first few weeks are much more than that they give you a chance to have skin to skin contact and begin to understand some of your baby’s cues. It’s about forging a unique bond for a lifetime of love and connection.
This time is not just good for your partner, and your baby but it’s great for you. It’s a chance to get stuck in and be present, learn and grow as a dad.
If have any paternity concerns or positive experiences leave them in the comments below. 👇