Feeling resentful when your husband doesn't help with the baby because he works? Learn what to do to get him to help you around the house. A shower. Running an errand. Even taking a 30-minute break from everything. These are all starting to feel like luxuries you practically have to pull teeth to get, except it's not because you're alone. It's because your husband doesn't help the baby. He won't change diapers unless you ask, and even then, he gives you a hard time about it. The same is true with feeding the baby and even giving him attention. You can't get him to clean, cook meals, or … [Read more...]
Heartwarming Children’s Books about Dads
Reading children's books about dads is a wonderful way to celebrate fathers! Discover these heartwarming picture books all about dad. My eldest was six months old when my husband celebrated his first Father's Day. I bought Guess How Much I Love You—a book about how much a papa hare loves his son—and planted my son's chubby right hand onto the inside front cover. With a marker, I traced his handprint on the book and wrote, "Happy Father's Day!" It was the perfect gift for the occasion. But beyond the special occasion of Father's Day, reading children's books about dads celebrates the … [Read more...]
Dads Are Co-Parents, Not Babysitters
It's tempting to see dad as a babysitter when mom steps out, but learn why dads are co-parents, not the occasional extra help. Whether on mom boards or among your friends, you hear moms wondering how to get dads to pitch in more, especially with the kids. They're stay-at-home moms with husbands who expect them to handle the kids. Working moms who end the day only to do even more work around the house. They're not sure how to get their partners to ease some of the burdens from their shoulders. I'm not all too surprised. History has seen women as the nurturing gender, the caregiver … [Read more...]
Tips for New Dads in the Newborn Stage
About to welcome your first baby and not sure what to do? Discover useful tips for new dads in the newborn stage to survive and thrive. Not too long ago, men weren't expected (or sometimes even allowed) in the delivery room. Fathers still doted on their children, but in their own ways, like providing for the family and being the "fun" parent. This left the business of caring for kids on mom's lap. Dads, I'm talking to you today. Because while we still have some ways to go, you're more likely to get involved and take on an equal role in parenthood than generations past. You especially … [Read more...]
5 Reminders to Tell Yourself When Your Baby Only Wants Dad
Feeling rejected when your baby only wants dad? Check out these 5 reminders when baby prefers dad over mom or cries when he's with you. It's a pain and jealousy you feel, but for surprising reasons: your baby only wants dad. You love the fact that she has a great bond with your partner, but it still hurts to see your own child ignore you. No matter how much you try to be "exciting" and fun, she always wants daddy. You even thought it would be temporary, but several months later, nothing has changed. There are times when she won't even look you in the eye, but as soon as she sees … [Read more...]
Top 7 Qualities of a Good Father and Husband
Being an amazing dad is more than providing for the family. See the qualities of a good father and husband and see which character traits matter most. Good dads are all around us, don't you think? Amazing dads who wake up in the middle of the night to change diapers, just so we can have a few more minutes to keep sleeping. Fathers who end a long work day still eager to play chase, even if it means postponing dinner for a bit. I'm grateful my kids have a great dad, and I know I'm not alone. Many of us have no idea how we'd get through parenthood without the partners we have in our … [Read more...]
Top Baby Stuff for Dads He Can Actually Use
Looking for baby stuff for dads he'll actually use? Take a look at the new dad must haves and gadgets every father is sure to love. My husband took one glance at the baby wrap I bought for us and looked at me like I'd lost my mind. He was on board with baby wearing, but he clearly had a preference for color, something he'd feel good wearing outside. So, it was no surprise that when we had twins a few years later (and would need two wraps), he immediately ordered another one for himself—in black. Just a few short decades ago, we didn't expect dads to push strollers or change dirty … [Read more...]
What to Do When Your Toddler Doesn’t Want Daddy
Struggling when your toddler doesn't want daddy? Learn the best ways to help him cope with separation anxiety and take to both parents. "What am I—chopped liver?" my husband joked. Although he'd always been a hands-on dad with our kids, our then-toddler clearly preferred me over him. After having being away at work, he couldn't convince our son to so much as pay him any attention. He'd start playing games, but our toddler would refuse. And diaper changes? I was the "lucky" one who had to do them all. We have to hand it to dads for being patient when our toddlers prefer us over … [Read more...]