Sometimes it can feel like it’s all about the mom and baby. But as a dad, you’re a very important part of the family, too. If you stay involved, your little boy or girl has a better chance of being healthy, strong and smart.
Early on, your attention and support can help your partner have a healthier pregnancy. Around four months in, your baby can hear and feel you from inside the womb. Gently rub your partner’s belly to build a connection with your baby. And after birth, he or she will love to watch, listen, touch and even smell you.
Research shows that sons who have involved fathers are less likely to enter the criminal justice system. Daughters of involved fathers are more likely to delay their first sexual experience, which decreases their lifelong risk of infection, and are less likely to enter into abusive relationships.
Women without involved partners have more complications during delivery, are less likely to get adequate prenatal care and are more likely to smoke. Get the point? You are vital to your family’s long-term health and success.
Be the best dad possible. If you didn’t have a father growing up, you may not understand your role. Being a father isn’t easy. Neither is being a good partner. But whether your role model for fatherhood is your own dad, your grandpa or a character on a TV show, the important thing to know is your own worth.
Stay involved with your partner and your baby. Ask questions and offer help. Let your baby know you are there to comfort and support him or her and let your partner know you can be counted on. Being a father is one of the hardest, but most rewarding experiences in life. Don’t miss out. Do your best and enjoy the ride.
Resources
The National Center for Fathering is a great resource on how to become a better dad. Their DIY Dad Training can help you see where your strengths and weaknesses are and guide you towards tools that work for you.
As a new father, you may have a lot of questions. Check out the Parenting Two-gether guide from the Attorney General of Texas.
Texas A&M; University has provided a list detailing just how important your job is as a father.
Need more reasons why your involvement is important? Here are 20 reasons why fathers are important.
