7 Tips for Fathers to Bond with a Breastfed Baby
It is often said that fathers have a hard time bonding with their babies especially if the baby is breastfed. Bosom Buddy is here to help you with some bonding ideas for daddy or partner and baby!
Skin to Skin- S2S is a magical experience for both baby and parent. Did you know that it does not have to be the mom doing S2S to have amazing benefits? Dad can do this too! S2S has been proven to stabilize breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature. Babies also tend to cry less when S2S. So daddy, take your shirt off and hold your baby!
Baby Wearing- Baby wearing has been shown many times that it creates a bonding relationship. Babies tend to cry less and have both their physical and emotional needs met when worn. This can also be done while S2S!
Bath Time- Bath time is a sweet time to play with your baby while also caring for some of his most basic needs. Take time after the bath to cuddle and smell those intoxicating baby smells before moving on to the next task.
Baby Massage- Baby massage is comforting to most babies. It can also help relieve gas resulting in less crying and better sleep for your baby. Leslie with Bosom Buddy is certified in infant massage and can show you a few techniques to utilize while she there as a postpartum doula.
Read to Your Baby- Reading aloud to your child creates a special ritual and bond even from a very early age. This also helps increase your baby’s vocabulary, enhances memory, and stimulates language skills. This is a great bedtime ritual which can last many years and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Learn Cries- Babies often have many different cries- one for when they are hurt, one for hungry, another for just being fussy, and more. Spending time with your baby will allow you to learn the different cries therefore be able to quickly tend to your baby’s needs.
Educate Yourself- Learn about breastfeeding and how you can help. A prenatal session is a wonderful way to learn what to expect. Bosom Buddy offers prenatal sessions that will help both parents! Be an advocate for your baby and your partner in the breastfeeding journey. Prepare your baby to nurse by changing your baby’s diaper and getting baby undressed if nursing skin to skin. Once your baby is finished nursing, burp and snuggle your baby.
There are many other ways to bond with your baby besides the ones listed above. Find what works for you and your baby and make it special. Bosom Buddy is happy to come to your home and show you how to bath your new baby, do relaxing massage, and baby wear. Postpartum doulas have knowledge on many topics but our expertise is helping you to be the best parent that you can be!
