Becoming a father can be an exciting and overwhelming experience. Understand how to make your transition to fatherhood less stressful and more fulfilling.

• Recognize your sources of stress. As a new dad, tension can build up due to limited paternity leave, new responsibilities, disrupted sleep, financial strain, and the fact that you are spending less time with your partner.
• Make time with your family a priority. The most important thing you can do is simply spend time with your newborn. Time spent playing on the floor or watching your baby sleep is time well spent.
• Play a lot. Men often engage their babies in noisy, vigorous activities that represent an important style of play.
• Don't be afraid to take your baby out with you. It's easier to take them out before they become mobile. Movement helps infants develop everything from their brains to their sense of balance.
• Be extra patient, supportive, and communicative with your partner. It's important to continue talking to your partner about the changes you're experiencing and what you can do to support each other as your baby gets older.
• Try not to schedule too many things in one day. Everything takes longer with a baby involved.
• If you have a medical question about your baby, call our hotline 2356 for 24x7 medical assistance.
• Talk to other new fathers about your experience and theirs.
• Take care of yourself. Being a healthy and happy dad is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your kids.

When the going gets tough, take a break. When you haven't slept, the baby is crying, the phone is ringing, and your partner is cranky; go outside, and take as many deep breaths as you need before re-entering.

Source

WebMD