My wife and I took birthing classes, read a few books, etc. but nothing prepared me for the moment my first child was delivered. It was an almost indescribable experience where everything just…changed.
Patience. Remember you are both on the parenting journey together, but mothers and fathers will do things differently.
Take care of your partner. Postpartum depression is a very real concern and is difficult with new mothers already wondering if they are “doing it right.” She especially will get no shortage of advice. You and she know what’s best for your baby. And if you have a question, don’t hesitate to call your pediatrician or even the maternity ward.
As someone else said, make time for you and your partner. If you have family nearby, take advantage of that support system however you can. We moved away from all of our family and friends when we had two very young children, so if you are in a similar situation my first note about patience is even more important.
Finally, the cliché that kids grow up too fast is very true so enjoy the journey, embrace the mistakes. You only get to hold them for so long.
Patience. Remember you are both on the parenting journey together, but mothers and fathers will do things differently.
Take care of your partner. Postpartum depression is a very real concern and is difficult with new mothers already wondering if they are “doing it right.” She especially will get no shortage of advice. You and she know what’s best for your baby. And if you have a question, don’t hesitate to call your pediatrician or even the maternity ward.
As someone else said, make time for you and your partner. If you have family nearby, take advantage of that support system however you can. We moved away from all of our family and friends when we had two very young children, so if you are in a similar situation my first note about patience is even more important.
Finally, the cliché that kids grow up too fast is very true so enjoy the journey, embrace the mistakes. You only get to hold them for so long.