{"id":5126,"date":"2021-04-02T15:59:11","date_gmt":"2021-04-02T19:59:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/birthyoudesire.com\/?p=5126"},"modified":"2021-01-29T15:59:35","modified_gmt":"2021-01-29T20:59:35","slug":"tools-and-tips-for-dads","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/birthyoudesire.com\/tools-and-tips-for-dads\/","title":{"rendered":"Tools and Tips for Dads from Dads"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Tools and tips for dads, straight from the dads themselves. What it\u2019s like to be a dad? What do dads need to do during the pregnancy, birth, and postpartum period?<\/p>\n
Dads need a safe place to discuss fatherhood with their peers. It gives them a place to lean on each other and learn how to navigate parenthood. Consider it an accountability circle. Together men can support one another and help when things get tough.<\/p>\n
Fathers often take on the burden of holding everything together and making sure everyone is ok. That can lead to them being seen as strong and silent. Yet underneath that strength and silence, there may be churning thoughts, confusion<\/a>, and a scared person. A lack of communication between the couple can lead to feelings of distance or separation. Share your thoughts, needs, and fears. You are in this together.<\/p>\n For some partners pregnancy, birth, and recovery can trigger feelings of trauma or grief. Oftentimes, these events have hidden layers that are suddenly exposed.\u00a0 Society shows us through mass media that you should be strong and silent. Yet holding onto that trauma and grief can cause stress for you, your partnership, and your child. \u00a0Dads often need time and resources to process this grief in their own way. Partners give your guy some space. Let him process at his own pace. And dads, sharing some of your process or grief with your partner helps them feel connected to you.<\/p>\n Education is very important to demystify the unknown. Learning how to navigate pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period ahead of time sets that dad up for success. Childbirth classes<\/a>, CPR classes<\/a>, or even peer support give dads the tools for the job.<\/p>\n Dads, is your partner breastfeeding or chestfeeding? Consider taking a breastfeeding class with them to learn about the process. Once you are at home, create safe spaces for feedings. Offer them water and a snack. Have the phone, a charger, and burp cloth close at hand. Consider being the expert diaper changer. Also, infant massage<\/a> and bath time can be your special time with the baby! Most importantly just be present and able to help as needed.<\/p>\nTips for dads:<\/h2>\n