Tresillian Tips for Dads

After the birth of a baby, your relationship with your partner undergoes a process of change. After the initial excitement, both parents can expect to experience interrupted sleep, an increase in household chores, financial stresses and feel overwhelmed. Sharing the parenting load allows both parents to have a break and recharge. If you are feeling overwhelmed by the responsibilities of being a new dad, or having difficulty talking to your partner about your feelings you can phone the Tresillian Parent’s Help Line, talk to your GP, or access support using Tresillian Live Advice or visit  www.menslineaus.org.au

Take the opportunity to play with your baby when you’re:

• Changing your baby’s nappy,
• Bathing your baby
• Feeding your baby
• massaging your baby
• chatting with your baby
• taking baby for a walk
• floor play including  tummy time

Older children love to:

• read together, play peek a boo, do puzzles
• engage in messy play e.g. water play, sand play, painting, playdough
• active play e.g. playing with a ball , going for a walk, going to the park, playing on the swings, music and dancing
• Help with chores such as gardening, washing the car, helping prepare a meal, hanging clothes on the line etc.
• Involving your child in your hobbies e.g. fishing, camping, photography, sports.
• Most of all just have fun together.