Feeding your infant is an essential part of parenting. While mothers have traditionally been seen as the primary caregivers responsible for feeding their babies, more and more fathers are taking an active role in their infants’ feeding. In this guide, we’ll provide tips and advice for fathers of newborns in India who want to become more involved in infant feeding.
Did you know that a study published in the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care found that fathers who are involved in feeding their infants in India have a positive impact on the infant’s growth and development? The study found that fathers who were more involved in feeding their infants had infants who were more likely to have better weight gain and cognitive development. This highlights the important role that fathers can play in their infants’ feeding and overall development.
Common Challenges Fathers May Face in Feeding their Infants
One of the most common challenges that fathers may face in feeding their infants is a lack of experience and knowledge. If you’re not familiar with the basics of infant feeding, it can be intimidating to try and get started. Additionally, fathers may feel a fear of doing something wrong, which can cause anxiety or stress during feeding times. Cultural barriers and myths can also create challenges, as traditional gender roles or cultural norms may dictate that fathers should not be involved in feeding their babies.
How to Make Feeding Time Fun for Both Father and Infant
Feeding time doesn’t have to be a chore or a source of stress. In fact, there are many ways to make feeding time fun and engaging for both you and your baby. For example, try making eye contact with your baby, talking to them, and singing songs during feeding. You can also experiment with different feeding positions to see what works best for you and your baby. Finally, if your baby is fussy or restless during feeding, try soothing them with gentle rocking or skin-to-skin contact.
Dealing with Judgment from Others
As a father who is becoming more involved in feeding their infant, you may encounter judgment or criticism from family members, friends, or even strangers. Common criticisms might include the idea that fathers should not be involved in feeding their babies or that fathers are not capable caregivers. It’s important to remember that these criticisms are based on outdated stereotypes and are not reflective of the important role that fathers play in their babies’ lives. If you encounter judgment, try to stay calm and composed, and provide reassurance that you are a capable and important caregiver. Don’t be afraid to stand up for your role as a father and the benefits it brings to your child.
Here’s a list of ten essential items that are available for purchase in India that can help fathers with infant feeding:
- Burp Cloths: Don’t spend hundreds of rupees on brand new muslin burp cloths, they’re not worth it especially since all they’re going to do is catch vomit and spit-up! Just cut up old clothes and use them to catch spit-up when you burp your baby after feeding them. Remember that one burp is rarely enough, try to get at least two or three out of them to ensure a happy baby.
- Bottles: The right bottle can be the difference between night and day when it comes to your experience feeding your child. We suggest the Philips Avent Natural Bottle – many parents have shared that this is the bottle that feels closest to breastfeeding and causes the least amount of nipple confusion.
- A good pair of headphones: Listening to something while feeding your infant can help pass the time quicker. If you have an iPhone, the AirPods are a no brainer.
- Bottle brushes: To clean the bottles and pump parts easier. This Pigeon brand brush is cheap and does the job well.
- Sterilizer: To ensure that there is no bacteria or infection in the bottle parts. We love this Fisher Price sterilizer because it dries the bottles too – a gamechanger!
Feeding your newborn is an essential part of being a father, and there are many tools and resources available in India to help make the process easier and more enjoyable. Whether you are breastfeeding or bottle feeding, having the right equipment and supplies can help you bond with your infant and ensure that they are getting the nutrition they need to grow and thrive. By investing in items like proper feeding bottles, burp cloths, and a good pair of headphones with your favourite TV show, you can set yourself up for success and make feeding times less stressful for both you and your infant. Don’t forget to also take care of yourself and seek support when you need it. Being a father is a journey, and every step along the way is worth the effort. With the right tools and mindset, you can confidently navigate the ups and downs of infant feeding and create a strong bond with your little one that will last a lifetime.
