5 Ways for a New Dad to Help Out Mom

Encourage Her

Moms, especially first-time moms, experience fear and doubt when caring for a newborn. It can be overwhelming to realize you have a brand new, little life to care for. Dads, encourage her. Let mom know that she's doing a great job, that she is loved, and that she is appreciated.

Express these things verbally, and also find little ways to surprise her. Leave a cute post-it on the fridge or set a cute background on the computer screen when she's not looking.

Make Sure Mom Gets Alone Time

If mom is staying home with a newborn while dad goes to work, her time is consumed by the baby, and it can be stressful. Most new moms are nervous about taking their eyes off their child for even a minute. Make sure that mom gets a break, some alone time that she can spend relaxing. 

Some moms might be apprehensive to leave the baby, which is completely natural, but encourage her to unwind anyway. Even if it's just long enough to take a nap in the next room.

Learn How to Help with the Baby

New parents find themselves having a lot to learn, moms and dads alike. Dad- make sure you're learning right along with mom. Learn how to change diapers, feed your baby in the middle of the night, get your baby bathed and clothed, and how to soothe the baby when they're crying. This way, you can split the duties with mom, not leaving all the pressure on her.

Offer to Get Up in the Middle of the Night

New parents are exhausted. With frequent wake-ups, bouts of crying, and the sheer anxiety of having a newborn, sleep can be a rare and elusive thing. If mom is finally catching some Zzz's and the baby wakes up, take over on this one. Before mom goes to bed, let her know you've got this night and that she can focus on getting some sleep.

Keep the Romance Alive

So you're covered in baby puke. There's a pile of dirty laundry on the floor, and neither you or mom have showered in days. All of your focus is on making sure your new baby is cared for, and (maybe) that the house doesn't fall apart. Don't forget about your relationship. Bring mom flowers, ask the grandparents to watch the baby for a few hours so you can get dinner, or put on her favorite movie at night. Little gestures of love mean a lot when you have a newborn.