How to Plan for the Birth of Your Child

Here are some tips that will help you as you prepare to welcome your new baby to the family:

1. Understand the important role you will play in your child’s life. Dad, you make a difference to your children. Whether this is your first child, or you already have children, you play a vital role in helping all your children have a healthy birth, and then, helping them learn and grow. Start talking to family or friends about how they planned for a new baby. Learn about fatherhood and child development by reading a book or taking a class. Visit FatherSource, NFI’s resource center, to get your hands on a variety of fathering materials or learn about our group-based programs. And, since you'll be a dad for life, you can also join our Dads Club™ for life!

 

2. Stay close to your partner. Pregnancy can be a stressful time physically and emotionally for mom. So, dad, part of your job is to make sure you are talking with her frequently about her concerns, and are getting her input about your concerns. Also, make sure you and mom are dedicating enough time to your relationship. Research shows that when fathers are involved in the pregnancy, moms are less likely to be depressed and are more likely to attend their prenatal visits.

 

3. Go to the doctor’s appointments. Although it can be kind of uncomfortable, attending exams with your partner can really help your planning. You can learn from the doctor the details of pregnancy, how to help your partner and baby stay healthy, and what to expect at delivery time. Many practitioners can also consult with you or refer you to agencies that can answer non-health-related questions about finances, safety, and so on. Consider your doctor as a partner in this process. Oh, and don’t be afraid to ask questions if there is something you don’t understand.

 

4. Prepare your living area. Is your home, car, and yard ready for a young child? Obviously you’ll need the basics like a crib and a car seat. But also take the time to learn how to baby-proof the areas your child will be spending time in. You can talk with your doctor, your local fire department or emergency response team, or attend one of NFI’s Doctor Dad™ workshops offered in your area. Think of yourself as the first line of defense when it comes to keeping your baby safe.

 

5. Prepare your other children. While you and mom might be worried about the addition of this baby, your other children probably are, too. They might be asking themselves where they will fit into your “new” family, or what will happen to mom when she goes to the hospital. Some children might be so anxious to play with the new baby that they don’t understand how fragile he or she will be. Talk with your children about the new baby. Go to the book store or library and get a children’s book about the subject that you can read to them. You might even consider practicing, with a doll, how to properly hold and touch the new baby.