Get Bonded: How Partners Can Bond with Their New Baby

From the moment your baby is born they seem to go directly to the birth parent’s chest and that immediate bond begins to form. If your family is breastfeeding, it can probably feel like this new baby is literally attached to your spouse or partner all the time.

But what about you, the other parent? How can dads or partners create a strong bond with their newborn baby?

It’s actually easier than you think! First, start with lots of love. You can never go wrong with an excessive amount of baby snuggles and cuddles and head kisses. Keep that up! And second, check out our favorite bonding tips below. Not only are these things great for bonding with your baby but many of these things are also a huge help to your partner who is recovering from birth and figuring out that whole feeding thing.

Practice Skin to Skin

Skin to skin contact is definitely beneficial for the breastfeeding parent and the baby, but did you know that recent studies have shown it is also helpful for the non-birthing parent as well? Increased skin to skin time has been shown to boost confidence levels and promote feelings of protectiveness towards the baby. So whip that shirt off and bring your little one in for some kangaroo care. That skin to skin feeling just can’t be beat. And we know it helps create a lasting bond.

Babywearing

This is another great option to keep baby close to you. The benefits to your baby include decreased time crying and increased responsiveness to soothing, while the benefit for you is more baby snuggles and interaction. Plus, babywearing keeps your hands free so you can bond with your newborn while also getting things done around the house.

Playtime

I know you’re probably thinking, “Playtime with a newborn? Yeah, right.” But hear me out. Even newborns seek “play” time with their parents. During their still and quiet moments when they are awake and alert, this is the time to play. Make eye contact with them. Bring their face close to yours so they can get a good look at your features. Make funny faces at them. Sing to them. This is all considered developmentally appropriate play for a newborn.

Bottle Feedings

If your baby is being fed other than at the breast, this is a great way to bond. Whether it’s only an occasional bottle or bottles are a daily part of the feeding routine, get in there and get comfortable with this. During feeds, make eye contact with your baby if they’re awake or talk to them throughout the feed. You can also get skin to skin while bottle feeding - a double bonding whammy!

Diaper Changes

I know, I know, not super fun, but still this is quality bonding time. Talk to your baby throughout the diaper change, even if they are fussy. Let your baby hear your familiar voice, it will be a comfort for them. You can sing songs or make goofy faces - anything to make this time more playful.

Comforting and Soothing

We love seeing partners become Baby-Soothing Ninjas. We’re a huge fan of using Dr. Harvey Karp’s 5 Ss from the Happiest Baby on the Block - swaddling, side lying, swaying, shushing, and sucking - to comfort a fussy baby and we teach this method to dads and partners all the time. Being responsive to your baby’s needs and soothing them when they cry is a fantastic way to form a solid bond. It also builds your confidence as a new parent to be able to comfort your little one when they need you.

So as you can, there are SO MANY ways for the dad, the other parent, the partner, or whoever fills this role in your baby’s life to create a meaningful bond.

Get to know your baby and let your baby get to know you. Before too long, the two of you will be best buds!