How to Help Dad Bond with Baby

Table of Contents

• What is bonding?
• What if I don’t bond right away?
• Is it important for a baby to bond with Dad?
• When do dads bond with babies?
• How long does it take for dad to bond with baby?
• How can dad bond with baby?
• How can dads bond with breastfed babies?
• What if dad continues to struggle bonding with baby?

What is bonding?

Bonding is the term that refers to that strong connection parents build with their babies. It’s what creates that natural instinct for littles ones to call for mom and dad when they are sick, hurt, or just needing human connection. Bonding moments build that connection so your baby feels safe and secure with their dad. One of the strongest connections mothers experience in bonding with their babies comes from breastfeeding. If you’re a dad, you may be wondering what you can do to build and promote that same level of connection with your baby. Keep reading dad, there are plenty of ways and we will go over how to help dad bond with baby. 

What if I don’t bond right away?

It’s completely natural as a parent to wonder if you’re doing everything you can to bond with your baby. Baby bonding doesn’t just magically happen from the moment a baby is born, so do not be discouraged dad! Navigating parenthood can feel like a lot, but bonding with your baby makes it all worth it. 

Is it important for a baby to bond with Dad?

A bond between a baby and their dad is important for many reasons including promoting physical and cognitive development for your child. The benefits don’t stop for the child, there is such great pride that comes from a baby reaching for dad and calling for dad when they are sad. There are many ways for a dad to bond with their baby. To name a few, try babywearing. Rather than pushing your baby in a stroller, strap on a supportive carrier and be interactive with your child. The Tushbaby Carrier is popular among dads. It’s open design allows your baby to feel free, while protecting your body and your baby’s body too. Another way is to be more involved with routine activities, such as diaper changes.  The Tushbaby Changing Pad folds up small (so small it can fit in your pocket) so you can take it anywhere, thus allowing you to never miss an opportunity to bond with your baby. Later on we’ll go over more ways for the baby to bond with dad and vice versa too!

(Also Read: Top Rated Baby Carriers for Dads)

When do dads bond with babies?

With the time babies spend with their mothers, it can feel like you may not have as much time to bond with your baby. There are plenty of ways in which dads can spend time bonding with their baby. For example, holding the baby after feeding, spending playtime together, and taking over the morning shifts to spend those first moments with the baby. Dad’s can bond with their baby at any time. Whether it be during bedtime or changing time, be present with your baby to allow the bond to flourish. 

How long does it take for dad to bond with baby?

Forming a strong attachment from bonding doesn’t happen right when the baby is born, it can take time. For fathers, it can take a few months longer than mothers to feel that strong attachment with your baby. Outside of continuing to nurture and provide your little one their basic needs, there are plenty of ways to promote dad bonding with your baby. 

How can dad bond with baby?

Let’s check out some ways for dad to bond with baby.

• Early interaction: Although bonding doesn’t happen immediately, it’s never too soon to promote bonding between a baby and their dad. The sooner you start, the sooner you’ll feel that strong connection with your baby. This means taking advantage of some of those moments after birth to hold your baby. When mom is resting, take the time to get some skin-to-skin contact and share some moments with your baby. 
• Skin-to-skin: Skin-to-skin contact can be very therapeutic for babies and their parents too. Skin-to-skin contact between a baby and their dad can allow both to enjoy some sweet sweet moments of snuggles and relaxation. Babywearing is one way to get more skin-to-skin bonding time with your baby.
• Babywearing: It’s no question that babies feel safe and comforted when they are held close. By babywearing, dads can promote bonding while bringing their little one around for any adventure. Having some assistance to keep your baby close will help this experience feel even more comforting for you both. The Tushbaby Hip Seat Carrier offers four different seating positions to aid in any part of the feeding or holding process. It also comes in masculine prints and colors, such as camo and black. The multifunctional design is meant to keep your baby comfortable while saving your back and arms. After all, you may find yourself holding your baby more than you ever imagined. 
• Waking up with baby: Let mom get those few extra moments and sleep and be the first to spend some time with your baby in the morning. Mom will surely appreciate the extra shut eye, and you and your baby can enjoy some one-on-one time to play, snuggle, and connect. 
• Calming a fussy baby: One of the best ways to calm a fussy baby is by wearing and walking with your baby. Take the fussy baby out of their current environment, throw on your Tushbaby Carrier,  hold them close, and watch as the fussing wanders away. 
• Get involved in feeding and diaper changes:  Some of the most intimate moments with a baby are feeding and changing. Do your best to get involved in feeding (if using bottles) and changing diapers. It’s hard to imagine mom will mind you tackling diaper duty. 

Be prepared for these moments and get yourself the right gear. Tushbaby has multiple products that will have you ready. The Tushbaby Carrier provides a comfortable seat to position your baby for feeding, mimicking the special moments they share with mom. In addition, it features five storage pockets so you can bring along the necessities without a diaper bag or purse. Be sure to include the Tushbaby Changing Pad in one of the pockets - yes, it will fit!

• Early morning one-on-one time: Start the day with some extra time with your baby, especially if you have to head out for a day of work. Not only does it increase your bonding time with your baby, your day will surely be better after some baby snuggles and love. 
• Home from work rituals: If you’re a working dad, you may worry about the time you miss while in the office during the day. Create a special moment when you arrive home and implement some “dad’s home”  rituals. Maybe a nice walk around the block, a dance around the living room, or even just holding your baby while you are cleaning up. Throw on your Tushbaby HipSeat Carrier, hold your little one close, and soak up every moment. 

How can dads bond with breastfed babies?

When it comes to nursing, it’s no question that dads can feel like they are missing that same connection between mom and baby. One of the best ways to bond with your breastfed babies is by getting involved in the feeding process when possible. Dads can tag in and soak up some of that very special experience. After the baby is done feeding is a great time for dad to take over if not using bottles. Dads can burp the baby, soothe them after feedings, and hold them as they sit up after a feed. 

What if dad continues to struggle bonding with baby?

At the end of the day what matters most is the time and effort a parent puts in with their little one. As humans, we naturally stress things we want to achieve so badly. Although sometimes easier said than done, try not to overthink it. Every moment you enjoy with your little one brings you much closer. Your baby will feel your love, especially when you are holding them close. So keep snuggling, keep playing, and keep carrying on. 

As a dad you may be strong enough to carry your baby all day long, but remember it may not be good for your body or your baby’s body. The Tushbaby Carrier is designed for moms, dads, and babies with safety as a top priority. The Tushbaby Carrier puts babies hips in the proper “M” position, which protects your baby’s body, and evenly distributes the weight of the baby to keep the wearer's body safe too. Babywearing does not have to entail an enclosed carrier that takes away from seeing your baby’s face or interacting with them. The Tushbaby Hip Seat Carrier has an open design that is just like carrying your baby on your hip, only with support. 

Try the best-selling baby carrier on the market and bond with your baby today! Shop Tushbaby.