Having your first baby (and any thereafter) is an exciting time for any family. Some dads are lucky enough to be able to take some time off in the beginning for bonding, while others head right back to work. In our case, my husband received a short vacation before returning to work and leaving me to care for our baby alone most of the day. This situation can lead to more challenges for dad to bond with baby, but there are some ways to encourage dad to be more involved in the routine to develop the father/child relationship.
Creating a bedtime and bathtime routine for dad and baby is a great way to bond. Our son absolutely loves when daddy is home at night. Generally, 9 times out of 10 he will pick my husband to help with bathtime, pajamas and the bedtime routine. I love watching the two of them interact and bond together!
Here’s a peek at our bath and bedtime routines with Dad:
Bathtime:
Our little ones love bubble baths and could spend forever playing with boats and cups in the bath! While they play, dad washes their hair with Baby Dove shampoo. While we both love Baby Dove products, it’s especially my husband’s favorite. The shampoo and baby tip to toe wash gently washes while leaving our kids feeling super soft, moisturized and smelling amazing. Baby Dove wash is tear free and hypoallergenic ensuring happy kids remain should any come in contact with their eyes. The objective is happy bonding time with dad!
After dad bundles, our fresh scented babies in towels he gives them little massages with Baby Dove Rich Moisture Lotion. This is our little one’s FAVORITE part of the routine. They’re so silly together as dad rubs lotion on his belly and little feet.
Bedtime:
Once the bath time routine is complete, they’ll climb into the rocker to read a couple books and cuddle before getting into bed. Our little one simply loves being read to and I know my husband loves cuddling with our clean babies!
Starting a bedtime and bath time routine early on with dad is a great way for them to bond and develop their relationship. Adding Baby Dove into the routine ensures a happy baby and equally happy dad.