Partners in Parenting
Having a baby is craziness, joy, beauty, and that overwhelming feeling of love. The first few months with a new baby are overwhelming for partners, but it doesn’t have to be a solo mission. It’s a much nicer road to go down when you have two parents who are in it and sharing the work, creating a more connected bond and a healthier family.
Planning Ahead: The Foundation of Partners
Communication is key even before the baby comes. Talk about your expectations, roles and what the challenges might be. Consider the following:
- Division of Labor: Recognize which tasks each parent is ok with and which they would like to learn. Be honest and realistic about what you can and can’t do.
- Financial Planning: Getting a sense of each other’s financial status and how it will impact your parenting RELATED: After Baby, Relationship Ins and Outs.
- Leave and Work Planning: Parental leave plan and who you’d like to take care of your child when you return to work.
- Support system: Have family or friends you can turn to for support.
The First Few Weeks: Partners Teamwork in Action
The longest stage is known as the newborn stage and boy does it take up a lot of your time and energy. To offload the work well:
- Feeding: If you are breast-feeding, the non-nursing parent can help by filling a water bottle, bringing snacks and burping the baby. For bottle-feeding, switch on every feeding.
- Diaper Changes: Take turns changing the diapers, even in the middle of the night. This is something that the two parents will be able to bond with their baby!
- Reassure and Comfort: Both partners should master the techniques that comfort the baby. That may mean rocking, singing or skin-to-skin contact.
- Household Duties: Share tasks around your home so that no one person is carrying the whole load. This even applies to day-to-day activities like cooking, and cleaning, laundry, and running errands.
- Rest: Prioritize sleep. Alternate nighttime feedings and baby care so you both can get a good amount of rest.
- Emotional Support: Support one another emotionally. Notice the struggles and mark the triumphs.
Also Read: Parenting and Habit Building: A Guide to Happy, Healthy Family Life
Communication: The Lifeline of a Partnership
Open and straightforward communication is essential. Here’s how to maintain open lines:
- Daily Check-ins: Make a daily commitment to discuss the way you’re feeling, any difficulties you’re experiencing, and any assistance you might need.
- Active Listening: Listen carefully to one another’s concerns.
- Show gratitude: Acknowledge and appreciate the other person’s actions.
- Be Flexible: Know that there are going to be changes and be prepared to amend your plans.
- Approach a Therapist or Counselor: Do not shy away from consulting a therapist or counselor if you find it hard to speak or cope with stress.
Making Time for Partners
Despite the needs of your newborn, it’s simple to forget your relationship. Make a conscious effort to:
- Date Nights: Not necessarily a night out, even a night in after the baby’s bedtime.
- Spend Time Together: Do things together that you both like.
- Display affection: holding hands or cuddling can be used to maintain closeness.
- Prioritize Your Relationship: Keep in mind that a healthy relationship is the pillar of a healthy family.
Accepting the Journey as One
Sharing the burden during the newborn period is an investment in your relationship and your family. If you plan ahead, talk openly, and help each other out, you’ll be able to get through this tough yet rewarding period with less stress and more joy. Keep in mind that it’s a process, and you’re in it together. Acknowledge the little achievements, help each other over the rough patches, and hold close the special moments with your new baby.
