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Every newborn needs their mother to survive and thrive. While there’s nothing like the bond between a mom and her baby, a relationship with dad is just as important. Learn more below about why you should spend quality time with your infant. After reading, you’re sure to be inspired by what you can do for their growth. You’ll also have another wonderful reason to snuggle, sing to, and care for your little one.
It Helps With Cognitive Development
According to Jean Piaget’s Four Stages of Cognitive Development, children move through four distinct stages of mental growth. The first period, which is known as the sensorimotor stage, begins at birth and lasts until about two. The following three stages continue until your child turns age 12 or older.
During the critical sensorimotor phase, babies are learning about the world around them. They’re also learning foundational concepts such as object permanence. In addition to talking to your child and letting them play with different types of toys, your very presence is helpful to their growth.
According to recent research published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, a kid’s interaction with their father alone is enough to help with their healthy cognitive development.
So go ahead—let mom have a break!
A walk in the stroller with baby or a father-and-child tummy time session is sure to enhance their cognitive skill set.
It Helps Baby Feel Safe and Secure
Moms are often known as the nurturers and caregivers of the family. Dads, in contrast, provide a unique and welcoming feeling of safety and stability. When you wrap your child up in your arms, they’ll experience the warmth and peace they need to ease their fears or get to sleep.
The comfort you offer your baby will also last for their lifetime.
When a child has their dad to lean on, it enhances their confidence and self-esteem. Your strength will also make them feel confident when they have a tough day, or the world seems like a challenging place.
It Offers a Unique Perspective
If you’re the dad of a sweet baby boy, your time with them is critical. After all, you’re the primary teacher for how to be a great father and partner.
When you’re the parent of a little girl, your role is just as essential. Dads help their daughters learn about how it feels to be treasured and valued. They also provide strong examples of how men should treat women in their lives.
When your kids take time to bond with you, they also learn more about who you are.
By taking the time to show your children your favorite hobbies or by exploring your past, they get to learn about their father and their family. This knowledge helps your kids find out who they are and develop confidence.
How to Bond With Your Baby
Now that you know how much of an impact you have on your little one, you’ll be even more inspired to bond with your baby.
Here are a few different ways to get started: First, offer to change baby when they soil their diaper, have an accident, or otherwise need a clothing change. Your gentle touch, gaze, and smile will help baby get to know you.
Learn how to change a diaper before baby is born, so you feel more confident.
You’ll also want to know which types of baby clothes are easiest to put on and make into a cute outfit. If you’re looking for PJs or clothes for a cozy nap, footed pajamas or a bodysuit and pair of comfy pants can make your child feel more comfortable and at ease. A Onesies® Brand bodysuit is also perfect for pairing with stretchy jeans, leggings, or baby shorts. The signature three-button design on the crotch makes for simple changes day or night.
Other ideas include wearing baby in a sling carrier while you walk around the house. Being close to you will make them feel safe and may even help them take a nap. Skin to skin contact is also beneficial to your child’s development.
New moms usually do it when their baby is firstborn, but dads can practice it as well. Place your newborn on your bare chest while they’re wearing only a diaper. The activity is known to calm both you and baby, as well as helping create a strong parent-infant bond from the start.
The more you spend time with your child, the more loving and beautiful your life will become. While there’s much your baby can learn from you, you are sure to grow through them, too.
Embark on your journey with enthusiasm and confidence, then don’t forget to trust your instincts. You may be a new parent, but you have all that you need to be the perfect dad to your child.
Krystle Cook – the creator of Home Jobs by MOM – put her psychology degree on a shelf and dived into a pile of diapers and dishes instead. She is a wife and mother to two rambunctious boys, sweating it out in her Texas hometown. She loves cooking, DIY home projects, and family fun activities.
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(Is Father-Child Bonding Important?) After my granddaughter was born last May of 2019. My son stayed home with her after Mom’s six week maternity leave was up. Mommies job paid more and had better health insurance then Dad’s job did, so that is the decision they decided to make. It has worked out wonderfully for the whole family too. My son can not stand being away from his daughter for very long at all. He is a great Dad too. I am so proud of him.
Your son sounds like he’s an amazing father. Kudos!