5 Things That Will Make You Panic As a New Dad (And How To Deal With Them)

5 Things That Will Make You Panic As a New Dad (And How To Deal With Them)

You’re about to become a new dad. While you couldn’t be more excited, the doubts have started to creep in. But don’t fret – you’re not alone. When your baby arrives, here are five common feelings you’ll likely go through, as well as handy tips on how to overcome them.

1. I don’t feel connected to my unborn baby yet

Just remember that your connection is going to be different to your partner’s. So you’ll have to take a different approach. Often, this can start when your baby is still kicking around in the oven. It might feel strange at first, but here are some simple ways to form a strong connection:

Listen to the heartbeat

Hearing your baby’s ticker for the first time is an intimate experience you’ll never forget.

Watch them move

When your doctor checks your baby out on a sonogram, you might get to see them move. Ask your doctor to describe your baby’s features and progress.

Have a chat

While your baby will instantly recognise your voice after birth, talking to them while they’re in the womb will help you form a connection. Don’t be shy, unborn babies are excellent listeners.

2. I’m not sure how to talk to my partner

While forming a connection with your unborn baby is important, maintaining a strong relationship with your partner is crucial. Pregnancy is a testing time, so the more you’re there for each other, the better. If you’re having communication problems, try out these handy tips:

Listen to your partner

It sounds simple, but tuning in is a great form of communication. You simply don’t have the answers to everything, so just being there to lend an ear can make a world of difference.

Be open about your feelings

Pregnancy is an emotional experience, full of surprises. So try and talk about it, even if it’s hard. It’s better to express how you’re feeling, rather than bottle things up.

Focus on the positive

There will definitely be ups and downs, but if you try and stay positive, your relationship will be stronger. When you’re having trouble talking, simply express your love and gratitude – small comments make a big difference.

3. I don’t feel ready to be a dad

Becoming a dad is a huge commitment, and it’s natural not to feel totally equipped for the job. Along with the worry of becoming ‘responsible’ is the fear that you won’t be able to see your friends or do any social activities. However, being a dad doesn’t mean you have to do away with these things. It simply takes more organisation, effort and scheduling.

The other fear for new dads is the idea of ‘baby care’. It can be easy to fall into the trap of thinking you’re incompetent in this department. Indeed, the stereotype indicates that women are better at rearing kids. But this isn’t necessarily true. If you’re feeling ill-equipped, visit a male friend or relative who has a baby and get some baby-handling practice under your belt – everything from picking them up to changing diapers to bottle-feeding.

 4. I feel guilty for wanting to have alone time

When you become a parent, time alone is just as important as time with your baby. Having a child is a full-time job, and like any job, both of you need breaks to relax, reflect, and sleep. Of course, in the first few years, this can be tricky to do or even talk about. But it’s important that you make the effort, for the well-being of yourself and your relationship.

While you shouldn’t feel guilty for wanting alone time, there still needs to be a balance. It’s certainly okay to do so, but only if the same deal exists for your partner, or you’re communicating about it properly – otherwise it can become a real problem. Try and spend some time alone together too, and remember, you’re both in this together.

5. My child isn’t eating enough

It can be stressful to deal with when your child doesn’t seem to be eating enough. However, it’s best to know the facts about what they need on a daily basis, and when you actually should be worried. According to a paediatric dietitian and nutritionist Susie Burrell, here’s what you need to know:

Young kids just don’t each much

When your child is between two and five years old, their growth dramatically slows. This means they only need, at most, half to one cup of food each meal. Don’t worry if they skip a meal. It’s normal for your child to eat one big meal, and then leave the next one.

Fix their diet

Snacks can easily fill an infant up. Make sure you create a scheduled diet of nutritional food.

Importantly, if your child is losing weight or experiencing lethargy, tummy issues and stunted growth, visit a paediatrician right away.