Our wonderful dads deserve to be celebrated every day of the year. So with Father’s Day 2022 just around the corner, we want to take a look at some of the most commonly asked questions about becoming a new dad.
What to Know as a New Dad
If you’re a new dad, you’ll probably have a million and one questions. And that’s okay! This is a whole new experience for you, so take a step back and think about some of the things you might need to know.
Newborn feeding habits
Newborn babies need to feed every 2–3 hours. This means parents have to take the time to feed their little ones anywhere between 8 to 12 times every 24 hours. So if you’re choosing to bottle feed your baby, you’ll need to learn how to make formula. And quick!
You don’t have to be an expert to prepare a baby bottle. All you need is powder formula and water, although this should be boiled or sterilised to make sure it’s as clean as possible. To make bottles that are ready to drink in under five minutes, you can also use our RapidCool kit.
Cleanliness is holiness
It’s no secret that newborn babies can be messy. Whether you’re changing dirty nappies or wiping up spilt milk, new dads should always have cleaning essentials at the ready. Our baby changing bags are perfect for packing wipes, nappies, and nappy changing bags.
To make sure you’re ready to clean on the go, you can also invest in a portable UV steriliser. Whether they drop their dummy or bottle on the floor, you’ll be ready to save the day and make sure everything is safe to use quickly.
Don’t forget about tummy time
Tummy time is important for the physical development of your child. As a general rule, you should be placing your newborn on their stomach for one minute a few times a day. This will help build their muscle strength as they grow.
To make sure this is as comfortable as possible, you can place a comfortable blanket and a tummy time pillow on the floor. Our pillow even has toys attached to stimulate sensory development. A little bit of tummy time every day and your little one will be crawling in no time.
How much time should a new dad take off work?
If you’re living in the UK, paid paternity leave can last for 2 weeks. This is needs to be taken in one go, but you can choose to take a longer period of unpaid leave depending on your place of work. You can also apply for Shared Parental Leave (SPL).
There are no right or wrong answers when it comes to parental leave. It’s completely up to you! Whether you choose to stay home and care for your newborn or go back to work and provide for your loved ones, you’re doing everything you can to be a great dad.
How to help new dads you know
Even if the new dads in your life seem to be doing everything right, everyone needs a little help and encouragement. So how can you help new dads?
What to put in a new dad survival kit
There’s no doubt that becoming a new dad is hard work. It’s rewarding, of course, but there will be new challenges each day and night. To help the men in your life achieve their superdad goals, you can make a new dad survival kit.
New dad survival guides are full of helpful supplies, such as coffee and chocolate treats. You can also choose to include funny items, from rubber gloves to help change hazardous newborn nappies to a bottle of ibuprofen for any incoming crying.
What to bring a new dad at the hospital
It doesn’t matter how much a couple prepares, going into labour doesn’t follow a schedule. From premature births to prolonged periods of stay, you might want to bring new dads supplies for their time in hospital.
This can be something as simple as a phone charger, their favourite snacks, a change of clothes, or some spare cash. Also, a comfortable pillow is sure to go down a treat!
As a new dad, you have your work cut out for you. If you’re getting ready to welcome a new addition to your family, take a moment to relax and know you’re going to do great. But if you’re wanting to lend a helping hand to a new dad you know, some tasty treats and words of encouragement are always welcome.
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