Beyond Lamaze: Going Above & Beyond To Prepare For Fatherhood

Over the past several decades, Dads have made leaps and bounds when it comes to taking the time out to bond with, prepare for and help out with the arrival of a new baby. Once upon a time, new dads weren't even allowed in the delivery room. Then, there was the arrival of Lamaze, which brought fathers into the delivery room with a more active roll than ever before. Now dads are sought out for even greater involvement and activities in the preparations for a new baby.

If you're looking to prove to the love of your life that you'll be an active parent who will lend a hand and ease the burden of motherhood, the good news is that your mate will sing your praises to anyone who'll take the time out to listen. The bad news is that if you set out with this goal and make a great start, you're going to need to remain consistent. This isn't a "one time" thing. Your role as a father will continue not just for the next 18 years, but all through your life and the life of your child.

Start With A Good Night's Sleep

While this may seem silly, you're much more useful to your lover if you're well rested and in a reasonably good mood. Face it; before very long, the two of you will NEVER get enough sleep. While you still can, stock up on it and relish the pure indulgence of it.

Show Your Craftsmanship

As a man, there's a chance that you can hold your own with a drill, hammer, some nails and other handy tools. If this is so, now is a great opportunity to help your mate in the creation of your baby's new nursery. Help paint (the fumes can be dangerous for your spouse), put up shelves, put together the cribs (after following the directions) and find other ways to help shoulder this burden and make your mark on their environment.

Take A Class Or Two

If you're terrified of holding, feeding or otherwise handling a new baby, you're not alone. Fortunately, there are a number of classes and courses available in just about every community you can imagine. These classes will help you develop essential parenting skills. However, more importantly, it will also work to develop your confidence as a new parent which is often more than half the battle in the first place!

Become A Car Seat Superstar

If you're looking for a simple solution, take the time out to play around with your new infant car seat, and learn how to easily and adeptly install it in the backseat of your car, with all of the belts, buckles and other restraints properly in place. In addition, learn how to remove the car seat, so that you can help lug around your new bundle of joy and give your mate a break now and then.