DadProved

Category: Newborn

DadProved posts and articles on newborns aged 0 – 3 months

  • dad newborn infant bonding

    dad newborn infant bonding

    One of the most beautiful aspects of parenthood is the opportunity to bond with your newborn / infant. That magical connection doesn’t happen overnight, but with some tips and tricks, you can start building it right from the beginning. Use this Dad Guide to explore the art of bonding with your newborn.

    The Power of Skin-to-Skin Contact

    From the moment your baby is born, they are ready to connect with you. One of the most effective ways to create that bond is through skin-to-skin contact. This simple act of holding your baby close, with your skin touching theirs, is incredibly powerful.

    Dad infant bonding Skin to Skin contact

    How to Do It:

    • Hold your baby on your bare chest, allowing them to feel your warmth and heartbeat.
    • If it’s cold, use a soft blanket to cover both of you and keep your baby snug and comfortable.
    • Talk or sing to your baby softly to introduce them to your voice.

    Dad Infant Bonding by Feeding

    Feeding time is an excellent opportunity for bonding. Whether you’re bottle-feeding or supporting your partner with breastfeeding, this moment is when your baby connects with you over a meal.

    Dad infant bonding by feeding infant from a bottle.

    What to Remember:

    • If you’re using a bottle, maintain eye contact with your baby while feeding.
    • If your partner is breastfeeding, take the baby from her once the feeding is complete and hold them to you.
    • Offer soothing words or gentle strokes.
    • Make it a special moment, free from distractions.

    Dad Newborn Bonding over Diaper Changes

    Diaper changes may not sound like a bonding opportunity, but they’re perfect for one-on-one time with your baby. This is when you can engage in baby talk, make eye contact, and share smiles and giggles!

    Dad infant bonding during diaper change

    How to Make It Special:

    • Use this time to engage with your baby, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
    • Talk to your baby in a soothing and animated tone, describing to them the things you’re doing.
    • Keep diaper-changing supplies nearby to make the process efficient and comfortable.

    Dad Newborn Bonding with Sounds and Rhythms

    Babies find comfort in familiar sounds and rhythms, and your voice is one of their favorites. Dads, use your voice to soothe, entertain, and build that special bond.

    Dad Bonding with Newborn

    What to Do:

    • Sing lullabies or nursery rhymes to your baby.
    • Create a bedtime routine with a gentle lullaby and soothing words.
    • Make up stories and interesting scenarios and talk to them in an entertaining manner. Sometimes babies listen more carefully if you whisper to them!
    • Make funny sounds or mimic your baby’s coos and giggles to share a laugh.

    Dad Newborn Bonding with Massage and Bath Time

    A gentle baby massage is a wonderful way to relax your newborn and enhance your bond. It’s also an opportunity to learn more about your baby’s likes and dislikes in terms of touch and pressure.

    New dads, don’t let the grandparents have all the fun! Get your hands oily for some hands-on massage time! It is one of the most amazing moments of fatherhood and you cannot afford to miss it.

    Dad newborn bonding through massage

    Tips to Massage and Bathe:

    • Use baby-safe oil and warm it slightly in your hands.
    • Gently massage your baby’s arms, legs, back, tummy, and feet.
    • Pay attention to your baby’s cues; if they seem uncomfortable, adjust your technique.
    • Use a tub to lay the baby down for the bath, so they’re comfortable.
    • Ensure that the water isn’t too hot so the bath is enjoyable for them.

    What to Remember:

    • Talk to your baby and make playful sounds to encourage them to lift their head.
    • Be patient; tummy time might starts with short durations and gradually increases.

    Dad Infant bonding through Activities

    • Use sensory toys and books to read to your baby! Dads, this will allow you to spend beautiful moments with your baby and they will love exploring the sensory books and toys.
    • Narrate your daily activities to your baby, involving them in your world.
    • Use colorful toys or objects to capture your baby’s attention.
    Dad bonding with infant by reading to him

    Dad Infant Bonding through Travel!

    As your baby grows, do not stay home! Dads, take your baby exploring, on long drives, on evening walks, to the mall, and wherever else you can think of to help strengthen your bond! Exploring the world together is a great way for a father to bonding with an Infant.

    How to Explore:

    • Start with a stroller if your baby is too young or too small for a baby carrier.
    • Start small, with trips around your home or in the neighbourhood.
    • You may also try visiting malls for a dust free environment.
    • Once your baby is a little bigger, use baby carriers as they allow you immense flexibility.
    • Pack the baby’s diaper bags with everything you’ll need and you’re all set to go exploring and bonding!

    Conclusion

    Remember, dads, bonding with your newborn is a natural and beautiful process. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you and your baby. The most important thing is to spend time together, be present, and enjoy the journey of fatherhood.

    Bonus tips for dads

    • Be patient and understanding. It takes time to develop a strong bond with your baby.
    • Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to your partner, family, or friends for support.
    • Above all, have fun! Enjoy this special time with your little one. They grow up fast, so cherish every moment.

    Now go forth, dads, and bond with your amazing little humans! The world of fatherhood awaits you.

  • Newborn Air Travel Checklist

    Newborn Air Travel Checklist

    The complete DadProved Dad Guide to newborn travel checklist, including tips for air travel with infant.

    Infant Travel Checklist

    Packing appropriately for your flight with a newborn is crucial to ensuring a smooth trip. Here’s what you need to consider:

    • Diapers and Changing Supplies: Pack enough diapers, wipes, and changing mats for the journey. Make sure to include puppy pads, poop bags, as well as a portable diaper changing mat – trust us, the diaper changing station on the standard B737-800 flights are and you will sorely miss one should you forget to pack this.
    • Weather appropriate Baby Clothes: Don’t forget to pack comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing for your baby.
    • New Toys: Pack some new toys that your infant has not seen before so their interest is maintained in the new toy.
    • Feeding Necessities: Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, make sure you have all the essential supplies, including water for babies above 6 months of age. They also get thirsty on flights.
    • Baby Carrier: A baby carrier can be a lifesaver, allowing you to keep your baby close and explore airports hands-free.
    • Travel Stroller: A lightweight and compact stroller is a lifesaver when it comes to traveling with a newborn by plane, especially if there are layovers. Even otherwise, you are allowed to carry the stroller till the boarding gate, or even in the flight if your’d like (and it fits the prescribed size). If your baby insists on being in your arms instead, the newborn travel system / travel stroller becomes a luggage carrier for the diaper bag and other handbags!
    • Medical Kit: Bring a basic medical kit with baby-specific items, just in case. This may include medication for colic, fever, cough, as well as prescribed supplements.

    Tips for Air Travel With Infant

    Nowadays, traveling with a newborn by plane is generally inevitable. Here’s how you can make the most of the experience when you have to fly with a newborn:

    • Flight Timings: Check for flights that are in line with your baby’s wake windows or sleep windows.
    • Book Layovers for International Flights: For international travel, we suggest you book for flights with layovers instead of direct flights. Yes, the travel will be longer, but having a layover will help you to stretch your legs and hep your baby get some movement as well. We’ve found Changi Airport, Singapore, to be an amazing layover stop when flying internationally with our baby.
    • Travel Time: Keep in mind that a flight travel would involve travelling to and from the airport. Keep the travel time in mind and ensure you travel preferably during the day, keeping in mind your baby’s sleep schedules.
    • Get there early: Generally, airlines will allow priority checkin and boarding if you are travelling with an infant. That being said, try and get there early to get through security especially if you are carrying baby food.
    • Carry a Stroller: Airlines will allow strollers of approved dimensions in the cabin. This means you can use the stroller until boarding and as soon as you deplane. This is immensely helpful, especially if your baby is sleepy.
    • Lounges: If possible, try and use the lounge facility at the airport so you have some time to relax and let your baby relax before the flight.
    • Family Toilets: Look out for Family Toilets to change your baby instead of the usual baby care rooms or the changing stations in the gender segregated bathrooms. Family Toilets are a boon – allowing the entire family to use the space at the same time so you may use the washroom while your partner changes your baby’s diaper or vice versa. Even if you are travelling alone, we strongly recommend Family Toilets because they have the wall mounted infant protection system so your baby stays in one place! We have seen Family Toilets in Mumbai and Bengaluru (T2) Airports in India.
    • Bassinets: If the flight is of a longer duration, make sure to book well in advance and ensure you have purchased seats with a bassinet. While you wouldn’t be able to place the baby in the bassinet during takeoff or landing, it is immensely helpful when you put the baby to bed. Plus, they are usually the front row seats, ensuring you have extra legroom for the same price.
    • Feed during takeoffs and landings: IF they are awake, try to feed your baby during takeoff and landing. The motion of swallowing / chewing helps ease the discomfort caused in their ears due to the air pressure.
    • Packing List: Ensure you have a dedicated bag with baby essentials for the train journey. This should definitely include toys that your baby is comfortable with as well as some new toys to pique their interest.
    • Baby Food: Airlines often allow you to purchase baby food, or bundle it with your infant seat booking.
    • Be Kind to the Cabin Crew: We have generally had amazing interactions with the cabin crew when we’ve flown with our baby. It always helps to be kind to them – it will help make the experience better for everyone!

    Conclusion

    Airplane travel with a newborn can be an incredibly enriching experience for both you and your baby. With the right planning, essentials, and a flexible attitude, you can create lasting memories while ensuring your baby’s comfort and well-being. So, go ahead and explore the stunning landscapes, delicious cuisines, and vibrant cultures that the world has to offer with your little one.

    If you still have questions, check out our FAQ’s on Newborn Air Travel in India.