Daddy Time!

Lately I have been more appreciative of my dad, grandfathers, uncles and brothers in my life.  I am always grateful when they fix the sink, help me with my car, give helpful life/job advice or even open a jar for me.  I am able to go to my dad for advice and help because of the trusting and loving bond made when I was young and continues today.  Here is a post on the role of Dads and some advice (or reminder) on how to be involved in your babies life.
 

Dads for a family provide

• Protection
• Consistent rules and discipline
• A sense of freedom
• Teacher
• Teamwork with common goals
• Experiment with games, skills, and competition
• Sense of security

Dads remember you are important in your child's life.  Be a dad by...

• Being involved in child's care changing diapers, read stories, put child to bed, etc. Moms, remember to allow dad take care of the baby once in a while too.
• Dance, rock, or gently bounce your baby to calm them
• Read and talk (or sing) to your baby.  Children love the sound of your voice.
• Learn to communicate your feelings and listen. Understanding is a must.
• Play with your baby.  Your baby needs your special insight and full attention
• Try to stay on your child's timetable, he will respond much better

 Support Mom by

• Pay attention to Mom and find ways to compromise about child care
• Remember that parenting is a partnership, you both are responsible for your baby
• Remember to take time for mom and dad to be together.  Wait until the baby is asleep and spend time together
• Relieve mom when you return home from work
• The greatest thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother

Here is a suggested book list for New Dads

• Fatherneed: Why Father Care is as Essential as Mother Care for Your Child [Paperback], Kyle Pruett (Author)
• The New Father: A Dad's Guide to the First Year [Paperback], Armin A. Brott, , Author)
• Partnership Parenting: How Men and Women Parent Differently--Why It Helps Your Kids and Can Strengthen Your Marriage [Paperback] Kyle Pruett MD (Author), Marsha Pruett PhD (Author)
• Wild at Heart: Discovering the Secret of a Man's Soul [Paperback], John Eldredge
• ·         Be Prepared: A Practical Handbook for New Dads [Paperback] , Gary Greenberg Gary Greenberg (Author) Author), Jeannie Hayden (Author)
• Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters: 10 Secrets Every Father Should Know [Paperback], Meg Meeker (Author)

·         Find all the books, read about the author, and more.

Yay for Dads!