Becoming a first-time father can be both, one of the most exciting and fearful experiences that any person can go through.
While you may find yourself excited about the idea that a new person will be welcomed into your life, as well as the new title of “parent” you will be receiving, there is also a sense of anxiety at the thought that you have a little one who is entirely dependent on you for survival and nurturing – especially since it is the first time you have ever experienced anything like this.
Regardless of what may be going through your mind there is simply no way of escaping it, and the best thing you can do for yourself is by preparing yourself for the day the baby arrives.
Lifestyle publication Medium explains the role of the father as being the following:
“The father is traditionally seen as the head of the household and the provider for his family. He is expected to be a role model for his son, teaching him about manhood, responsibility, and respect. The son, in turn, is expected to look up to his father and strive to emulate him.”
When it comes to his role in his daughter’s life, he is nappy manufacturing company Huggies explains, “The role you play as a father in the eyes of your daughter, for example, will subconsciously become the role she might expect of her husband later in life.”
This means that as a dad, your influence in your children’s lives is extremely critical for their long-term and short-term futures.
The lifestyle publication Healthline therefore, provides a list of tips that you can incorporate into you’re your life to ensure that you are the best father that you can possibly be.
Here are ways in which you can prepare to be a father:
Do research
The best way to become a good father is being actively involved from day one.
You may not be carrying the baby, but you’re still part of the pregnancy and birth experience.
Join online groups or sign up for a pregnancy newsletter. Research pregnancy symptoms to better support your partner. Learn about labour, birth, breastfeeding, and caring for a new-born to prepare for the experience.
Get healthy
You should prioritise your health before your baby arrives. Quit smoking to reduce the risk of congenital heart defects in new-borns. Eating well is crucial for your energy during early parenthood.
Getting rid of the bad habits listed above will ensure that you are a positive role model from the start.
Decide what type of father you want to be
Not everyone has a great relationship with their own father. If you’re lucky enough to have a great dad, you may want to be just like him — and that’s wonderful.
If your own dad left a lot to be desired, you may feel nervous about your own role as a father. The great news is that you get to decide how you approach parenthood. Find your own fatherhood role models and create the role from scratch.
Also see: How angry parenting can affect your child
