Survival Tips for the New Dad

Most new fathers are not prepared for their first baby. Some are not prepared if they have multiple children thereafter. How do dads prepare for their new baby and bringing him or her home? Is it just a matter of driving to and from the hospital and letting mom worry about the rest? Dad may not know what to do so he looks like he is not doing anything or is extremely stressed. Here are a few tips for the new father to survive the arrival of baby and help mom, too.

Survival tips for new dad:

Packed Bags - Before it is time to take mom to the hospital have her pack as many bags as you have vehicles. When the time is ready for mom to go to the hospital she can throw the last minute items into a bag and jump in the car. Dad already has her prepared.

Car Seat - When it's time to bring baby home from the hospital, baby will need a car seat. It is best to get the car seat early and have it where dad can find it. Before the big day, of bringing baby home, dad should install the car seat and know how to put baby in it properly.

Nursery - Have the nursery ready by mom's third trimester. If the baby is early the nursery is ready and it will be one less thing for mom to worry about. Dads need to finish setting the crib and baby's toys or "equipment" up before baby comes home.

Baby proofing - Baby proofing your home needs to be done before baby arrives home. This will alleviate the worry of baby getting hurt. If dad has not baby proofed the home by the time mom goes to the hospital, he may want to take some time to do it before bringing mom and baby home.

Knowledge - When you find out you are going to have a baby dads should arm themselves with knowledge. You will feel more comfortable knowing a little about babies before your baby arrives. Go to classes with mom. Birthing classes also have some parenting information in them. When babies first come home from the hospital the high points of what baby is going to want is food, sleep, and diaper changes.

Help mom - Ask to help mom take care of baby. There will be a schedule and you can be waiting to jump in when it is time. Mom could also use the help around the house. Now would be a good time to help cook, clean, and do laundry. Any help you can give mom will give the two of you more time together.

Dads should know babies do not fall apart easily. It is okay if you are not perfect, trying will make you perfect. Dads will survive infancy. It's the teenage years that you need to worry about. Enjoy your baby.