Bonding with your baby advice - Dads

14 My Dad and Me - Bonding for Fathers 15 “My first race in life won, our journey has started Dad!” Look after you Mums and dads looking after themselves is them also looking after their baby too! Up to one in 10 men experience antenatal or postnatal depression. It is important that Dads look after themselves too and if you do feel low or anxious it will help if you talk to someone. If you are feeling very tired, irritable or angry, you feel overwhelmed or that you can’t cope, it’s important to talk to your doctor. It can take courage to seek help, but it’s the best thing you can do for your family. TIP #10 Top tips for readiness: • Assess your environment to see if it is as safe as possible. For example, is it pet proof? Are there fire alarms fitted and working? • Preparing all necessary baby equipment and learning how to use it • Researching and supporting mum to make care choices i.e. feeding method, sleep safe. • Learning practical skills such as bathing, nappy changes, signs of wellness (booking on to ante natal classes may be useful). • Researching baby cues to help you recognise your babies needs once he or she is born. • Planning your finances. • Knowing your rights i.e. paternity leave • Get talking! To other father’s your partner or support network. • Smoking is not good for you or your baby. Cigarette smoke can restrict baby’s oxygen supply, which can seriously affect their health, growth and development. Protecting your baby from tobacco smoke is one of the best choices you can make in giving them a healthy start in life. Being kept safe There’s lots to learn now that baby is here, and doing research can help parents make the best choices for baby. They are so little that they rely on those around them 24/7 to meet their needs. This may feel tough some days so think about when you’ll accept help from family, friends, colleagues, neighbours or professionals.