My sister Amy runs this blog, but I like to “pop”-in (no pun intended) and make a post every now and again. Now that I have a newborn of my own, I have some experience to share!
After a month of being a dad, I have to say its pretty awesome. While I still have a ton to figure out, I found a couple of useful techniques when taking care of our new baby.
When she cries, I’ve found I’m able to sooth her by shifting her around, and finding a spot she’s comfortable in. I usually give her 30-60 seconds to try out a position, sitting up (propped up), laying on her belly on top of my belly (tummy time is always attended), or laying on her back on my chest. When she’s sitting up, I tap her back to help with the burps, but when they don’t erupt, and she’s still uncomfortable, its time for tummy. She actually likes it when I gently tap her back with both my hands, almost like drumming, and if she has her pacifier, she’s off to sleep in no time.
It doesn’t work all the time, but I’d say at least 90% of the time. And it isn’t immediate, like I said, I usually give her 30-60 seconds to find out if her new position is comfortable. And of course if she’s hungry there is little I can do at this point. We’re stocking up milk in the freezer for when mom goes back to work, when daddy day-care goes full-time.
All in all, being a dad rocks!
