WOW. Was that a lengthy title or what?! But it pretty sums up what many mothers and wives are struggling over everyday. It’s often not because our husbands don’t want to be involved, or because they are “too tired.” It’s simply because some new dads are scared, or unsure, or even that they don’t think they can do that task as well as you. There are many ways to encourage them to be more involved without hurting their ego or making them feel bad. Check out these four!

1. Ask His Opinion
It’s easy for us to think that after carrying our baby for 9 months and birthing them that we may know everything about caring for our new precious bundle. We can accidently push away our husbands by not asking for their opinions or ignoring their suggestions. They will want to be more involved, feel valued and treated as a co-parent rather than, “just dad.” Make sure to take time aside to listen, and seek out their opinion when making decisions about the baby. This will be important to put into place now, so that when these little ones are growing up they will see you as a unified front and a team that makes decisions together, instead of playing you off against each other.
2. Give Him Time Alone With The Baby
Let him learn and discover without you hovering around and checking on him. Maybe all he needs is some alone time to bond with the baby and get to a place where he is comfortable. So what if he puts the diaper on backwards, uses the wrong pacifier or didn’t bother to change them out of their pajamas? The baby will survive, and some precious memories will be made in the process.
3. Give Him Ownership Over Specific Tasks
Whether it is bath time, bedtime, or a 2 am feed (if you’re lucky), let him take ownership over specific task. Find what works for you both and let him run with it. Make sure to use those moment for YOU time knowing the baby is in good hands and being well looked after. You will both thrive with this sort of routine in place.
4. Make Time For Him
There is a good chance that your husband as a new dad is feeling under-appreciated and possibly jealous of all the attention the baby is getting. He may feel more inclined to be involved if there is a proper balance and he is getting enough alone time with you. I know it can be very overwhelming trying to split yourself between 2 people, but it’s vital you make time for both. Make sure to include some baby free date nights once in a while, and if when that isn’t possible be intentional about your time after the baby goes to sleep. Order some take out and have date night at home.
