Finding out that your wife has finally given birth to your first-born can be overwhelming at first. There will be many things that will enter your mind. Aside from this, you will also experience mixed emotions. First of all, you will feel happy knowing that you are going to raise your own child in this world. Second, you may also feel fear especially if you have no idea on what to do now that you are a brand new dad. At this point, it is significant to highlight the fact that what you are feeling is only normal.
Fathers more typically served as the disciplinarians and the breadwinners, while mothers provided nurturance and daily care. Gender roles were specified and clearly delineated, making these types of decisions easier. — Ben Ringler, MFT
Do not worry about being a dad because it is one of the best things that could happen in your life. Take note that not everyone is given an opportunity to start a family just like you. In this article, we are going to list down some of the tips and tricks that you need to learn. Here are the ideas from a therapist for a new dad just like you:
Be Patient
Keep in mind that your responsibilities at home will double. You will not only be a husband to your wife and a provider for the family. At the same time, you will also need to perform your role as a father to your child. Doing all these things can be exhausting, which is why you have to practice the virtue of being patient. It is time to increase your tolerance for stress and anxiety.
The what is always easier than the how. In other words, it’s much easier to tell parents what they should do rather than telling them how to do it. — Jon Lasser, Ph.D.
Spend Quality Time
The expenses at home will necessarily increase now that there is a new addition to your family. Having a baby is expensive since there is a need to buy a lot of things or materials. For this reason, you may find yourself spending a lot of time in the office. Remember that your child needs attention and love more than anything else in the world. Even if you are busy with your work or for the business, never forget to spend quality time with your infant.
…as the baby is able to control movements more, they more easily mirror their social partner. Dads are particularly good at playing with their children and through such play the child is learning scripts for social relationships. — Darcia F. Narvaez Ph.D.
Use Sounds To Interact
Do you want to help improve the speed of your child’s development? Do you want him to grow up as an intelligent child? If yes, then take advantage of the availability of sounds to interact with him. The next time you visit your baby’s pediatrician, do not forget to ask about the recommended music for your little one. The said doctor will surely be happy to provide you with the right answer. You can also use bilabials to teach your kid his first word.
Another great alternative for new dads would be to opt for online parent counseling or family therapy through BetterHelp. That way, they can deal with their worries and anxieties while staying at home with their first-born. By subscribing to the app, they can talk with one of the team’s credible and trustworthy counselors who can guide them towards dealing with their issues appropriately.
The best way to start fatherhood right is to keep your cool at all times. Remind yourself that raising a child is an obligation yet a blessing. Stop stressing yourself with all the changes that are coming in your life. Whenever you feel tired and exhausted, think of how amazing it is to have a chance to become a father. The important thing that you must remember is to have fun while doing it. Enjoy every single moment of this incredible opportunity in your life.
To learn more about this, feel free to check https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/psychologists/what-is-the-difference-between-a-therapist-and-a-psychologist/ today.