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10 Easy ways for dad to bond with baby
It may be women who have the edge on bonding with a new baby, but men don't need to feel left out. With a bit of imagination, a father can feel just as close to his new-born as a breast-feeding mum
1.) Talk to your baby before he's born
Studies have shown that babies learn to distinguish between their parents' and strangers' voices from 30 weeks in the womb. If dad speaks to baby before the birth, the baby will recognise his or her father's voice from day one. Charlie Case, mother to India, 16 weeks, says that, "Ted used to speak to my tummy every night towards the end of the pregnancy and I'm sure that is why India knows his voice".
2.) Dads who deliver
Encourage your partner to be present when you have your baby. Nadine Lahana, mother to Luka, three, is expecting her second baby in September. She says, "Brendan felt he really bonded with Luka when he decided to take part in the delivery. He cut the umbilical cord and he also made sure he was the first to hold Luka in his arms and to make eye contact. Doing all that bonded him to Luka instantly".
3.) Let your fingers do the talking
Ask your midwife to teach both you and your partner how to massage your baby. It's a wonderful way for father and child to spend time together. It will also allow you a proper rest, knowing that your baby is completely relaxed with his or her dad. Apart from the emotional benefits, studies have shown infant massage can ease digestion, relieve colic and help with breathing. Some women have even claimed massaging can spur growth.
Click here for more information on baby massage.
4) Skin-on-Skin:
Encourage your partner to get into the bath with your baby. It allows the father to take over an important job, so it makes him feel more involved and it also gives mum a bit of a break. Bathing is a fantastic way for dad and baby to bond, especially as many babies may be startled at being put into a bath. "Quite often Brendan will jump into the bath with Luka and they will chat for ages. This is their time and I know Luka thrives on it," says Nadine.
5) Take a walk
Another good idea is for dad to strap baby to his chest and go about his day - it sounds obvious but this is a great way for the father to get on with whatever he needs to do and also for the baby to feel comforted and close to his father.
6) Jive bunny
Babies are often stimulated by music and most babies love being jiggled about. A fun activity is to put on a favourite song and for dad to have a bit of a boogie while holding his baby. As well as being an upbeat bonding experience, with a bit of luck it will eventually send the baby to sleep.
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