Breastfeeding is an essential phase in the life of a mother and the child. Breastfeeding allows mothers to bond well with their children and provides them with the time and avenue to do so correctly. It is important to note that breastfeeding has a way of influencing the mother-child relationship when done well. Also, breastfed babies grow to become healthier children and less susceptible to allergies, eczema and asthma.
The big question now is, "where is your spouse in all these?'. Do they look the other way while mother and child bond so well?" This shouldn't be the case. This article brings to you six incredible ways your spouse can bond with your breastfed baby.
1. Bathing the child: The mother might spend almost 24 hours with the baby while you are away (typical in the case of stay-at-home mom) but those few minutes they spend bathing your child are very important and wonderful. Haven't you noticed that babies love water and the feel of the liquid on their soft body especially when done carefully?
2. Spending one-on-one time with your baby: Devoting and spending time with your baby is a meaningful way your spouse can bond well with your breastfed baby. Asides from water, babies love skin-to-skin contact. Place them on your bare chest, especially when they are asleep.
3. Changing your baby's diaper: Laughing, joking, and talking with your baby while changing their diaper is a beautiful experience altogether. Your spouse would be pleased to know that diaper changes are less smelly when a baby is breastfed simply because breast milk is the only content of the baby's diet. This also allows your spouse to spend quality precious time with the young one.
4. Read, talk, and sing to your baby: Your voice will become familiar, which can help calm an upset baby. Gradually, your baby begins to resonate with your voice. It takes time, but they start to get acquainted with you. Read kiddies' stories to them from books, even if they don't understand. With time, their brain would begin to get an understanding of all you told them. Also, listening to you and others around them is how babies learn to talk.
Read more: Postpartum Belts: All You Need to Know
5. Cuddle your baby: Who doesn't like cuddling, especially in cold weather? Babies enjoy this a lot. This would also guarantee you the opportunity to spend time with your child. Hold them and enjoy the cuddles; remember they won't remain this little forever.
6. Play fatherly games as it helps balance the affection and attention: All Babies need a father figure in their lives. The father's angle should be a blend of entertainment, playfulness, and devotion to the babies. Each parent will handle the breastfed baby differently, so they both need to be there at every turn the young child takes. This allows your young ones to learn and develop new skills.
Just because you are not breastfeeding doesn't mean you have to miss out on bonding with your new bundle of joy. Bonus, this also gives mom a bit of a break.
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