The father and the baby: I can too!

Children need fathers. Babies too. Early on, children develop a very special relationship with their fathers. Often fathers are confused or even scared, these little creatures are so fragile. However, there is no reason to worry. Fathers are different than the mothers. And it's exactly this difference that makes babies incredibly good. Fathers are allowed to be a bit more courageous. Ultimately, it does everyone good.

Naturally mothers have a head start. They see and feel how the baby grows in them throughout the entire pregnancy. The man often just stands by and feels superfluous. When the baby is there, fathers need a while to get used to the new situation. This is completely normal and nobody needs to worry about being a "raven father". But it does not take long before an intense bond with the baby builds up. And then sleepless nights are no longer an issue, it's about the many beautiful moments that fathers have with their children.

The father as a supporting figure

This is not about responsibility or who deserves more in the relationship. It's about carrying in the truest sense of the word. Fathers can do that as well as mothers. At first, most men are unsure of picking up the baby. But instinctively they finally do it right. One hand lies on the child's body, the other supports the head. Wearing creates a closeness that is incomparable and feels wonderful. Body contact is essential to build an intense relationship with the baby. Wraps or baby carriers are not just reserved for women, men can also use them to be closer to the child and thus strengthen and develop the relationship. So men have certainly never experienced the supporting role.

Division of labor is fun!

Sure, biology has set natural limits. The mother is usually responsible for the food, even if she does not breastfeed. The same applies to peace, comfort and security. The father is usually the one who is responsible for the playful elements. This starts with the baby and continues later. Children need both, the comforting mother and the father, who is responsible for romping and playing. Of course, this division of labor is not carved in stone, both parents can do both (from breastfeeding - as mentioned). In any case, the child needs both types of attachment, and the father plays an essential role.

Being a father means being authentic

Fathers are different than mothers, and so it should be. The voice is different, the way of touching is different, it is also playing or running around. For fathers, it is important to know that the child's wealth derives from these differences. Sometimes dads try to imitate their partner when they are with their baby or child. The mother takes over - without that she could do something - a role model function, which is counterproductive, because neither a baby nor a child wants two mother roles or two types of fathers. It is precisely that which is so different between father and mother, what children want and need. So fathers do well to be first and foremost: themselves.

Babies: The softener for tough guys

Muscle training? Lonely desert marches or baths in ice-cold water? Power struggles in the job or spending in sports until you drop? There are certainly men who need extreme demands. Sometimes to test your own limits. Or to stay fit or to work on your own self-confidence. All this is basically legitimate, as long as nobody gets hurt. And to be honest, you probably do not get around the insight that real guys just have to prove once in a while what hard stuff they can be. This works until they hold a baby in their arms, because the little creature - even more so if it's their own - turns every tough guy into a soft and empathetic man, who melts with happiness when he's offspring into the Poor and wants to jump in the air for joy, if the baby makes you laugh. These new feelings, the softness and the sense of tenderness are something every man can and should be grateful for. An entire man remains in any case, so no need to worry.

Perhaps the biggest challenge: The raised eyebrow of the woman

It certainly does not affect all mothers. But a not insignificant number of women do not necessarily trust their husbands to care for the baby as they can. As a dad you stay on top and do not try to imitate your partner. Anyway, it will not be possible to do everything the baby's mother does. It makes more sense to use their own techniques, which eventually convince the partner that it works the way the father does. Enough creativity can be used. The tights of the baby pulled over the paternal head, certainly provides numerous laughs in the child. Almost always you can score with the chewing in the stomach or with the tender nibbling and tickling on the baby's feet. At the latest, when not only the baby yelps with joy, but also the partner joins in, fathers have taken a big step for humanity. At least for those in your own family.

Did I forget something? Can you think of any more points?
I´m looking forward to your experiences and additions.

Other Dad-Chronicals Stories

Children and Humor

Promote boys properly - the role by the father

HELLO im DAD, the bad cop of the Family

Meaningful penalties - is there such a thing at all?

Children and Pets

The first tablet for the child - you should pay attention

Social differences and how children perceive them

But the other kids are allowed to do that!

Show feelings are allowed

The nap - rest for parents and the child

Everyone knows better - about dealing with good advice

The successful family home evening - It does not always have to be television