Nothing can be more exciting, and yet sometimes more terrifying than finding out you are about to become a father.

 

It can seem like a never-ending list of things to learn, and have to deal with.

The key is to remember that you do not need to (nor would anybody be able to) learn everything at once.

Most Dad’s will tell you even after their children have grown up and left home, they still don’t know half of what the “experts” tell you is required to be a good parent.

There is no instruction manual that comes with your child, and most of your parenting skills will be learnt as you go!

The main thing is to enjoy it. As long as your child is loved and cared for everything else will fall into place!

It’s great being a Dad.

 

 

Here are World of Dad’s top 10 tips for fathers to be!

 

1. Be as organised as possible- Make a list of things you will need to have ready for when baby comes home from hospital.
Also be sure to have a list of all the things you will need to have ready for when you head to the hospital for the big day!!

 2. Try to stay calm- Easier said than done I know, however if you have been organised, and got things ready (see 1!) you shouldn’t need to rush around when the time comes to go to the hospital when labour starts.

 3. Don’t allow yourselves to get overwhelmed- when there is a new arrival in the family, it is only natural that family and friends will want to meet them and congratulate you all.
The first few days at home with a new baby can be the most stressful so it is wise to limit visitors as much as possible.
Try to keep the amount of people round at a time as low as you can, so as not to overwhelm Mummy and Baby.
Don’t worry, people will understand!

 4. Support your partner- Mummies hormones will be very up and down after giving birth, and this is the time she needs your support more than any.
Make sure you help out with as much as you can, and make sure she knows you love her.
This is the time to run her baths, make her tea, do some house chores etc.

 5. Your baby will not break- Not all, but some new fathers can be terrified of handling their newborn (I know I was).
Get used to handling them as early as possible. It will get your confidence up and will also help you bond.

 6. Keep stocked up- Nothing is more stressful or annoying than reaching for a diaper/nappy and finding you have used the last one.
Make sure you have ample stock of all the essentials. This goes for the fridge and freezer too!

 7. If you are worried check with an expert- there are many times at the start of parenthood, where you will be worried about your baby’s health or well-being. If you are worried about something, don’t be afraid to ask your doctor or health visitor.
They will understand you are just a worried new parent!

 8. Communicate- A new baby will mean some changes to your relationship with your partner.
Make sure you always discuss how you are feeling, and be aware of how she is feeling.
Look out for signs of postnatal depression. If you are at all concerned, again talk to an expert.

 9. Make time for yourself-  Being a Dad is a major responsibility. You need to be there for your partner and your baby, and it can be a stressful time for us men. Make sure you have somebody that you can talk to if you get anxious.
Try and schedule a little time to relax and unwind, even if only for an hour or two.
Make sure Mummy gets the same treat. It will do you both the world of good.

 10. Enjoy it! – Possibly the most important tip. Being a Dad can be the most rewarding job in the world. When you little boy or girl gives you a big smile, and holds out their arms to you, there is no greater feeling in the world.

Make sure you appreciate the gift of your family!

 

Like we said, there is no instruction manual that comes with your baby, however there are some darn good books out there written with you new dads in mind.

 

Here are our pick of the bunch.