A SITE FOR DADS, BY DADS.
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PERFORMANCE
Fatherhood Role Benefits MomDad's Support for Mom. More important than everDifferent societies and cultures have always known that new mothers need to be cared for. Traditionally, this role was filled by grandmothers, sisters, and female neighbours and friends. Those female support networks are not as available nowadays because new mothers often live far away from their own mothers and sisters. And female friends and neighbours usually work outside the home. That means fathers are now a very important part of caring for new moms. Why Dad's care for Mom is so importantRecovering from childbirth and getting used to being a mother is a really big deal, both physically and emotionally.
How can you support your partner as a new mom?Start by thinking about the kinds of practical help she needs. Here are some ideas.
Doing your shareOK, so you can't breastfeed. But dads can do everything else - bathing, comforting, dressing, playing, carrying - can be done by fathers and mothers. Even with breastfeeding you can help by bringing her the hungry baby in the middle of the night, make sure there is a nursing pillow and a glass of water nearby or by helping to settle the baby after feeding. You don't need to share every job exactly equally. The point is to be aware of how much your partner is doing and to do what you can when you can. Support your partner's parentingAll moms (and dads) do a better job of parenting when they feel supported by the people around them. You can support your partner by lightening her load (as discussed earlier) and letting her know what a great mom you think she is. "When I went back to work after our baby was born, as soon as I got home each day, I'd start doing the cooking and washing. I worked really hard. One day my wife said, 'Stop that! What I really need is for you to take the baby for a half an hour so I can look after myself.' I'd thought I was doing what she wanted. I should have asked her." Peter, age 37 Supporting your partner is good for you tooAlong with everything else, supporting your partner at this important stage of life will be a really good thing for your relationship. New mothers really appreciate the people who support them and right now, she needs your support like never before. COMMENTS
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