What's your most important advice to a first time dad?

1. 89

   jpcmcposted 12 years ago

   What's your most important advice to a first time dad?

   replyreport
2. 62

   SaMcNuttposted 12 years ago

   Be there. Be there in the moments that matter but, also the small moments because, they may matter most of all. Be forgivable and forgiving. Teach by showing because, all actions go a long way in teaching the attitude and behavior a child needs to learn. Love, it covers a multitude of sins.

   replyreport
3. 0

   UrsulaRoseposted 12 years ago

   Apart from the obvious, which is to tell your wife that you LOVE her.
   
   I would also recommend that BEFORE the baby arrives cook up lots of nutritious meals that can be frozen in sealed microwaveable containers for the times when you will need them (trust me you will be needing them)! If you do not have a microwave all you need to do is to remember to take them out of the freezer to thaw out/defrost in time ready to eat.
   
   You and your wife will both be sleep deprived and tired and you will not feel like cooking so having these frozen meals on hand is very handy and they will also help you save some money in the long run.
   
   Being a parent is a wonderful thing but like everything the more you put into it the more you will reap the rewards.
   
   I wish you and your wife all the best.

   replyreport
4. 73

   frugalfamilyposted 12 years ago

   Studies have shown that actual bonding occurs during the care taking moments.  Don't be afraid to change those diapers, give those baths, and offer those feedings...but don't hog all the moments either!

   replyreport
5. 40

   Jessicabloxposted 12 years ago

   Love your wife more.. She will love and care your child more..
   It makes your family blissfull.

   replyreport
6. 78

   avorodisaposted 12 years ago

   What a good question! I'd say, BE PATIENT...

   replyreport
7. 58

   twilanelsonposted 12 years ago

   Trust yourself, and do not be afraid, do not be afraid to hold and nurture your baby.  Do not be afraid to accept your families love, and do not be afraid to completely give your family your love.

   replyreport
8. 94

   MsDoraposted 12 years ago

   Be your child's hero, demonstrating all the character virtues you will like your child to imitate--including love and respect for your child's mother.

   replyreport
9. 51

   tomlorijohnstonposted 12 years ago

   Now that you are a father, your family comes before everything....your job, your friends, your hobbies.  If any of these begin to interfere with your family, think twice. 
   
   That said, let me clarify.  You need time for yourself and you need to support your family, but make sure you prioritize and make the right choice.  Too many times I see parents tell their kids to "leave me alone, I'm busy" when all the child wants is five minutes.  When you take the time, it is often the best five minutes of your day.

   replyreport
10. 61

    tom hellertposted 12 years ago

    This is easy
    1. Be fair unbiased 
    2. Be strong but not impersonal.
    3. Always be honest
    4. Share your beliefs and values with your child. 5. Always tell the truth.
    6. Lead by example.
    Thats the key- thats my story n Im stickin to it

    replyreport
11. 60

    sam3mposted 12 years ago

    be prepared for major  expenses...aggravation...irritation...disappointment...some happiness...some heartbreak.
    you might be interested in this: http://hubpages.com/hub/humor-parenting … -need-kids

    replyreport
12. 68

    ShootersCenterposted 12 years ago

    One of the best pieces of advice I received was not to listen to advice from other people. Just show them love, patients and be  understanding, everything else will fall into place

    replyreport
13. 83

    Denise Handlonposted 12 years ago

    Don't forget to 'BREATHE' 
    
    Parenthood is an ongoing process.  If everyone gets some sleep some of the time (no matter what time) that's a plus.  It will get better!  You will learn as you go.  No new parent had the answers when they started...it's all experiential.  Oh, and if you have a second child you'll be way more blase about everything which will p.o. the first born who had to be your guinea pig.

    replyreport