Survival Tips for new Dads (Part I)

Your baby has just arrived – maybe your partner is still in the hospital – and you want to make sure everyone gets through the first weeks as smoothly as possible. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate life with a newborn.

1. Temperature: Keeping Baby Warm (or Cool)

Newborns can’t regulate their body temperature yet. That means clothes, sleep sacks, and cozy layers are essential to keep your baby warm. Make sure your little one is dressed appropriately – don’t forget the hat, even if it’s warm outside!

Quick check: slip your hand under their clothes onto the upper back. If the skin between the shoulder blades feels cold, add another layer. If it feels damp from sweat, remove a layer.

Tip: Babies often feel most comfortable when snugly wrapped like a little cocoon – but don’t overdo it. They still need room to move their arms for healthy development.

2. Nail Care

Some babies are born with long, thin fingernails – perfect for scratching themselves or others. Don’t rush to clip them! Newborn nails are delicate, and you could accidentally take off too much.

Better: massage baby-friendly oil into the nails a few times a day. This softens them and reduces the risk of scratches.

Extra tip: Baby nail files are gentle and make smoothing edges easier and safer.

3. Feeding & Nursing

Newborns have tiny stomachs and need to eat frequently – either at the breast or from a bottle. Follow your baby’s cues and support your partner. Get up at night to help: bring the baby, mix the bottle, or bring a warming pad. After feeding, holding your baby for a bit can help them burp.

Feeding is tiring – for both your partner and the baby. If she’s exhausted, take over a meal, handle some household chores, or set up small moments of comfort like tea and a snack.

4. Household Help

Support your partner as much as possible! Feeding can take place every two hours and last 15–30 minutes. After the birth of our first son, my wife sometimes didn’t even get a chance to shower because our baby needed constant attention – and I was at work. Evenings and nights are a great time to step in and help.

Tip: Plan simple meals, keep laundry manageable, and make use of helpful tools like the dishwasher or pre-prepped snacks. Every little bit counts.

5. Diaper Changes

Newborns need diapers changed day and night. Taking on night shifts is not only a huge help for your partner, it’s also a perfect way to bond with your baby.

Tip: Use dim lighting, stay calm, and keep your voice quiet – this helps your baby start learning that nighttime is for sleeping. Practice on a teddy beforehand or ask the hospital staff to show you. Remember: diaper tabs are usually at the back, always pull the elastic outward, and avoid folds that could irritate the skin. After a few times, it’ll become second nature.

6. Burp Cloths

Trust me: burp cloths are pure gold. You’ll use them constantly – for the baby, for yourself, and for your furniture. Nothing is worse than spending all day smelling milk. Have plenty ready!

Extra tip: Keep a small laundry basket near the changing area and sleep space – saves a lot of running back and forth.

7. Don’t Forget Yourself

Sounds simple, but it’s often forgotten: you need breaks and sleep too. Short power naps, quick snacks, and plenty of water will help you keep a clear head. A relaxed dad equals a relaxed baby – seriously, it works!

This is just the beginning. In Part 2, we’ll share even more practical tips for dads: how to survive crying fits, establish routines, create small daily rituals with your baby, and keep your partnership strong during these intense first weeks.

Good luck!

Rafael