Being an expectant father is both exciting and challenging. It requires us to take on new responsibilities while maintaining our manliness and balance at home and work.

The physical and emotional demands of pregnancy can sometimes take their toll, leaving some of us feeling resentful or frustrated and then guilty for having those feelings. Understanding that these emotions are normal and sharing them with others who have been through the same experience can be very helpful.

By doing so, you might just be surprised to learn how common your feelings are. And over time, you’ll find yourself gradually adapting to your new role as a dad.

First and foremost, I want you to know that every baby is unique. There’s no one-size-fits-all guide to being a dad because everyone gets to define what that means for them.

What I’ll be sharing are examples of what has worked for me. So, don’t stress about following every tip – just take what resonates with you and skip what doesn’t.

I understand that having a baby can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a first-time dad. But fear not; these tips might help you navigate your way to becoming a pro-dad in no time.

Start Your Research Early

If you are reading this list of tips for expectant dads, you’re already on the right track. As an expecting father, there are many great resources to help you prepare to take care of your baby. I plan to create posts about baby information, gear reviews, checklists, baby care guides, and more here on Happy Dad soon, so that’s something you should watch out for.

I get it; if clicking through endless links isn’t your thing, that makes two of us. But I’ll also post helpful sites on baby care backed by research from experts and tested by real dads (and moms). This way, you won’t need to bookmark a million pages to find what you need.

Plan a “Babymoon”

Wait, what? Take a romantic and relaxing trip with your partner before your baby arrives. Soon, your life will be all about the baby, which is something to look forward to. But you deserve one last trip as a couple to spend some quality time together.

Taking a babymoon is a perfect chance to recharge and unwind, which is crucial for your partner’s pregnancy health and peace of mind. Research shows that stress and anxiety during pregnancy can impact your baby, leading to issues like lower birth weight or increased fussiness.

Experts believe that when moms-to-be are stressed, they release hormones that can affect blood flow to the baby, potentially limiting the nutrients he needs. High stress levels can also raise the risk of preterm labor.

Time away allows you and your partner to reconnect and have meaningful conversations about your growing family. It’s a time to strengthen your bond and build a deeper, more intimate relationship to help you handle the new challenges of parenthood.

If you can’t manage a trip, don’t worry. Babysitters and grandparents will be available in the future. For now, enjoy those first precious moments at home with your little bundle of joy.

Get Your Living Space Organized

Having a baby means changing your sleeping habits (also known as getting less sleep.) When you’re sleep-deprived, everything becomes more challenging, so an organized living space can make daily tasks easier.

Staying organized helps you avoid those midday tantrums when you can’t find the baby monitor or that favorite blanket you were sure you left on the coffee table. Although, let’s be honest, your wife just probably moved it.

Also, babies start moving around faster than you can say “ten months,” so it’s a good idea to begin baby-proofing your home sooner rather than later. This might mean putting locks on cupboards, setting up safety gates at the stairs, covering electrical outlets, and keeping cords and breakable items out of reach.

A fun way to see what your baby sees is to get down on your hands and knees and crawl around your living space. You’ll be amazed at what catches your eye from their perspective. This can help you spot potential hazards and prepare your home for your little tot.

Choose Your Pediatrician

First things first, figure out what kind of doctor you want—whether it’s an MD, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant. Then, tap into resources like your primary care doctor or good ol’ Google to find out who’s highly rated in your area (you may want to check out @pediadocjoey on Instagram.)

Choosing a pediatrician before your baby arrives can make a world of difference. First off, it saves you time. No frantic searching for a pediatrician when your little one needs care. You’ll have immediate access to the expertise your baby deserves.

Plus, having a trusted pediatrician means peace of mind. When your baby’s not feeling well, you know help is just a call away. And let’s not forget about the money. Finding a pediatrician who takes your insurance lets you breathe easy, knowing your baby’s medical needs are covered.

I’m not an expert when it comes to timelines, but it may be best to start looking for a pediatrician early in your third trimester. This gives you plenty of time to check out different options and see if they are suitable for you and your little one.

Here are some things to keep in mind when picking your baby’s pediatrician:

Comfort level. It’s crucial to feel at ease with your pediatrician. You should feel comfortable talking openly with them, knowing they’ll take the time to listen to your concerns and care for your baby with compassion.

Location. Consider how close the pediatrician’s office is to your home or workplace. You’ll want easy access for regular check-ups and in case of emergencies.

Availability and office hours. Check out the pediatrician’s office hours and after-hours care options. It’s important to know you can reach them when you need to, especially during those late-night baby emergencies.

Brush Up on Your Photography and Videography Skills

Trust me, you will take many pictures of your baby, and that’s great! But don’t forget to capture videos, too. You’ll be amazed at how quickly time flies and how hard it can be to remember what your little one was like just a month or two ago. Having a library of videos will be something you’ll cherish as the years go by.

That said, remember to put your phone or camera down sometimes and just enjoy the moment. Remember that living in the present is just as important as capturing memories.

Now would be the perfect time to learn some of the advanced features of your phone or camera. Getting the hang of your gadget will make your photos and videos even better, and you’ll be grateful for the beautiful memories you can look back on.

Oh, here’s a quick tip: When you’re recording videos on your iPhone, hold it sideways. It’s a small thing, but it makes a big difference in how your videos turn out.

Get the Family Budget Sorted

Having a baby will no doubt have an impact on your finances, so it’s a good idea to get ahead of it. Sit down with your partner and work on creating or updating your family budget. This will help you manage the financial side of your new parenting journey.

Take some time to look over your household budget and figure out what’s essential for your lifestyle, especially with the deluge of expenses that come with raising a child. You’ll need to consider things like childcare, healthcare, and any changes to your insurance. Planning for these will make your transition to parenthood a lot smoother.

Pick Out Baby Gear and Essentials

Walking into a baby store for the first time can be pretty overwhelming. There are simply too many gadgets and pieces of equipment on display; you wouldn’t know where to start. While it might all seem tempting, you really don’t need everything.

Here’s a quick list of the basics that every new dad should consider when it comes to baby gear and furniture:

Crib. Babies spend a lot of time sleeping, so when picking out a crib, focus on safety and comfort. Make sure it meets all safety regulations and provides a cozy, secure sleeping environment for your little one.

Car seat. It’s essential for safe travels, so pick one that’s easy to install and remove. Make sure it’s convenient and user-friendly so you can handle it without hassle.

Changing table. It’s really handy for diaper changes. Look for one with an adjustable height. Trust me, your back will thank you later.

Diaper pail. Helps keep things tidy. Go for one with a cover that seals tightly. It will keep your room smelling fresh and lock in those number one and two diaper odors.

Baby bathtub. It helps make bath time safer and easier. Choose one that’s lightweight and convenient, ideally small enough to place on a counter. Your back will appreciate it!

Find a Good Balance Between Work and Family Time

Eventually, you will also need to think about how to handle your work life. Being a working parent means juggling schedules, and as you get ready for fatherhood, it might be a good idea to look at ways to improve your work-life balance if possible.

Now is a great time to consider taking some time off work and seeing if you can adjust your commitments once the baby arrives. Check if your workplace offers parental leave for non-birthing parents. It’s important to understand your options (like vacation time or parental benefits) when planning to take time off when your baby comes.

You might also want to explore flexible hours or remote work opportunities to spend more time at home. These adjustments can make a world of difference in how you’ll manage your new responsibilities as a dad.

Don’t Forget to Set Aside Time for a Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’

When you become a new dad, a lot will change, and your baby will quickly become your top priority. It’s important to realize that your sex life will take a hit with all these new responsibilities, but remember that affection, romance, and intimacy can still thrive in different ways.

Just being there for your partner and spending quality time together can really strengthen your bond. A bit of thoughtful planning (maybe even some scented candles) goes a long way. And if you’re wondering about sex during pregnancy, don’t worry. It is usually perfectly safe and healthy.

Remember that for most healthy women with uncomplicated pregnancies, sex can be a safe and enjoyable experience. It offers a long list of benefits, both physically and mentally. Not only does it help strengthen your emotional connection with your partner, but it also relieves anxiety and stress, eases tension, and burns some extra calories.

Don’t worry about the baby. They are well-protected by the womb, uterine muscles, the mucus plug around the cervix, and the amniotic fluid. However, it’s important to keep communicating with your partner to make sure you are both comfortable and enjoying the experience, especially since pregnancy hormones can greatly affect mommy-to-be’s mood.

Sleep!

Get as much sleep as you can now because once your baby arrives, your nights will get a lot more challenging.

Sleep is crucial, especially for new parents. Learning how to get your baby on a healthy sleep schedule can make a huge difference.

Having nights with very little sleep is normal, so don’t be too hard on yourself when it happens. But don’t let sleepless nights become the norm – it’s important for everyone in the family, especially if you have other children.

Keep in mind that taking some time to learn about baby sleep schedules now will no doubt pay off big time later.

Skills Every First-Time Dad Should Know

Bringing a new baby into your life is a big change. It affects everyone in the family and shifts your roles and priorities. You might find that you have less time for other interests and that your relationships have changed. That’s perfectly okay. It’s all part of the journey.

As you think about the kind of parent you want to be, there are a few skills that can be really helpful to work on before your baby arrives. Getting a head start on these will make the transition smoother for everyone.

Never Underestimate the Power of a Proper Swaddle

Swaddling can be highly beneficial for many newborns, especially in those early months. It gives them a cozy, secure hug that can work wonders for their sleep. Trust me, you and your partner will be thanking swaddles for those extra z’s.

But swaddling isn’t just about sleep. It can keep your little one from startling themselves awake, which means fewer interruptions for everyone. Plus, it’s a great way to prevent those accidental face scratches that babies are prone to.

Most new parents learn how to swaddle from the nurses in the hospital. Wrapping your baby snugly in a soft blanket mimics the comforting feeling of being in the womb, which can really help soothe them. When you get it right, swaddling is an effective technique for calming fussy babies, and, have I mentioned encouraging sleep?

Getting the Diaper Bag Ready

Much like most daddies-to-be, you probably already know that diapers are a newborn’s must-have. But do you know how to pack a diaper bag like a pro?

When you are out and about with your little one, having a well-organized and fully stocked diaper bag is a lifesaver. It’s the key to keeping your baby clean, dry, and happy.

Use large resealable bags or other plastic bags to keep things organized inside your diaper bag. Along with diapers, make sure you’ve got:

• Spare clothes (for both you and your baby)
• Wet wipes
• Diaper rash cream
• Hand sanitizer

Keep your diaper bag in your car or stroller, and you’ll always have everything you need close at hand. Trust me, a well-packed diaper bag can make all the difference when you are out and about with your new baby.

Making Use of a First-aid Kit

Another wise move is to get a first-aid kit and learn how to use it effectively. You’ll want to be prepared for those everyday mishaps like cuts, scrapes, or burns that can happen with very young children.

Here are some handy items to have:

• Baby thermometer
• Bandages
• Antiseptic wipes or solution
• Pain or fever medication

Learning how to handle minor bumps and bruises and knowing when an issue requires professional attention is all part of getting ready to be a dad.

Be There for Your Baby

Research suggests that talking and singing to your baby while still in the womb can have a big impact. While it can lead to a happier baby, I think it can bring a smile to your face, too! It’s about carving out some time in your day to connect with your little one right from the start, building that special bond.

Babies really don’t do much in their early days, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be present with them. Talking, singing, and reading are effective ways to enrich their world and strengthen your connection.

Sure, there will be moments when you sneak a peek at your phone for work or catch up on the game, and that’s okay. But remember that although these days may feel long, the years will fly by. So soak up those moments with your child, whether they’re a baby, a toddler, a little kid, or already a teenager.

As your baby grows, they will start responding to you in their own way. Their version of talking might be a bit different, and that’s totally fine. Although it might take some time to figure out their cues, spending quality time with them will help you become fluent in baby language before you know it.

Oh, and don’t hold back on the baby-talk voice! It might feel a bit awkward at first, but trust me, you’ll eventually get the hang of it. And here’s a little secret: your partner might find it incredibly sexy to see you getting all silly with your little one, softening them for a little bit of sumpin’ sumpin’ later on.

Be There for Your Partner

As an expecting father, it’s easy to feel a bit sidelined when your partner is pregnant. Most expectant dads wonder how they can be involved in this whole baby thing early on.

The first step is getting through the first trimester together. This period is a huge learning curve for both of you, and you’ll discover new things about each other along the way. It’s normal for your relationship dynamics to shift during this time, but staying connected and in tune with each other is key.

Remember, your partner is going through a lot right now. Be supportive and proactive. Whether it’s giving her a foot rub or surprising her with a thoughtful gesture, go the extra mile to show you care. Little acts of love and kindness can make a big difference.

There’s no better time than now to pitch in with chores. Whether it’s vacuuming, washing dishes, doing laundry, or making dinner every now and then, your presence and help are essential. To avoid those dreaded moments when pregnancy hormones lead to bursts of frustration, make sure you are stepping up around the house.

A little note to the ladies: When we do help out, your compliments will be highly appreciated, even if we don’t do things exactly how you would. Praising our efforts (no matter how imperfect) encourages us to help out again next time.

There’s No Such Thing as a Perfect Father

Becoming a first-time dad is an incredible journey, but it can also feel overwhelming at times. It’s a life-changing experience that will affect you deeply and unexpectedly shift parts of your life. It’s totally normal to feel a bit lost or unsure as you figure out how to care for your newborn and step into your new role.

Often, my advice for new dads is to take a moment to reflect on your own childhood. Think about the things your parents did well that you want to carry forward and consider what you might want to do differently. Take it seriously, but don’t stress yourself out too much. The fact that you are reading this means you care, and that’s already a fantastic start.

I spend a lot of time researching everything from baby gear to baby food, and while that helps, I still don’t have all the answers. What’s crazy about parenting is that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach – every baby is unique.

Just remember that every dad was once a first-timer also figuring things out, just like you. A bit of preparation can help reduce stress and allow you to savor those precious early moments with your little one.

I hope my list provides some guidance, but you’ll undoubtedly discover your own methods that work best for you and your newborn.

Above all, remember to have fun.

Laugh off the little mishaps, take parenting seriously (but not yourself), and enjoy every step of the journey.