How partners and family can help
For some mums, it’s only natural to want to do everything for your baby. But in reality, you can’t do everything. It’s actually a good idea to share the workload. This helps your baby to develop relationships with others and recognise the important people in your lives. Once you can get used to handing your baby over to someone else for a while, you can catch up on some activities or some sleep too if you need it. Not only that but you’ll be sharing the wonderful experience that bonding with a new baby brings with those who are nearest and dearest to you.
It’s great if your baby’s dad can spend plenty of time with your baby doing activities that involve skin-to-skin contact as this will help build the fatherly bond as well. Changing nappies, cuddling, putting the baby to sleep, giving them a bath, or even just reading in a chair while the baby naps on his chest are all great relationship builders. They’ll give him and the baby a chance to be alone together and for him to just enjoy being a dad.
It’s also good for dad to take responsibility for the little everyday chores which need doing around the house – sharing in the everyday routine is all part of coping with new family life.
Finally, be sure to enjoy time with your baby all together too! Family occasions such as dinners, outings and visits are the perfect opportunity for your baby to experience different cuddles and to see everyone that cares for them in the world around them.