Father’s Day is a special occasion that celebrates the role of fathers and father figures in our lives. For many this might be their first Father’s Day with the title “Dad”. For some they’re soon going to be fathers and trying to imagine what that must be like.
Many new fathers aren’t always sure of their role with the baby. Baby and mom share a lot of time together and some new fathers might be unsure what role they’re supposed to play. Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum is an Author, Neuroscientist and Doula that says dad has a big role to play with their infant’s development and mental health.
Dr. Kirschenbaum explained that parent’s brains change following the arrival of a baby and are different from an adult’s brain who has not had a child. The amount a father’s brain changes are related to the amount of time he spends with his baby. These changes lead him to be a more sensitive parent. This early connection with dad also benefits baby’s neuro development and boosts mental wellness for both involved.
Dr. Kirschenbaum gave us three ways dads can fill their role as a parent and nurture their baby for positive outcomes in the early years. The first is to have baby naps with dad.
What dad would turn down a nap? The second opportunity for dad to nurture and help with baby’s development involves water and play.
The final way seems obvious, once you hear it. Dads can help their baby by helping and caring for mom.
These suggestions are sure ways for new dads to play an important role in their child’s development and mental health. Dr. Kirschenbaum had one more bit of advice for new dads and it couldn’t be timelier for Father’s Day.
Our expert Dr Kirshenbaum literally wrote the book on this. Her book is called The Nurture Revolution: Grow Your Baby’s Brain and Transform Their Mental Health Through the Art of Nurtured Parenting. She offers resources, workshops, and coaching on her website www.nurture-neuroscience.com
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads new and old!
Story by Jeremy Hall
