We all know that the mother plays a leading role from the birth of the baby. Because she is the source of the baby’s needs for nutrition and many other things. And this is the case for a long time. However, the joint and balanced role of mother and father is very valuable for the development of the baby. So, what is the father’s role in baby development?
The Effect of Father Figure in Infant Development
For the baby, the father is as strong an attachment figure as the mother. During the first three months, the little baby seems to see nothing but the mother, but soon recognizes the father. Here, the father’s attention to the baby and the bond he establishes with the baby affect the whole process. So, what are the future effects for babies who can communicate well with their fathers?
- Babies who can communicate well with their fathers become more self-confident in later social life.
- The father figure is also valuable for the development of the capacity to love others.
- They feel safe.
- They are more successful in making and implementing decisions.
- Boys identify with their fathers and follow them. For girls, too, communication with the father determines the way they communicate with the opposite sex.
The father’s effective communication with the baby affects the baby’s development. So, what should fathers do to communicate with their babies?
How Can Fathers Communicate with Babies?
1.Father Communication with the Baby in the Womb
For fathers, the first communication with the baby starts in the womb. Following the baby’s development, participating in doctor visits means taking the first steps into the role of fatherhood. This process is more important than you think. Because by participating in these stages, the father prepares himself for the process after the birth of the baby.
2.Father Communication with Newborn Baby
Sharing the mother’s responsibility after the baby is born, burping thebabyafter feeding , supporting the baby‘ s feeding are very good communication opportunities in this regard. The father giving the baby a massage after bathing is also a very fun and enjoyable moment for the baby. If the baby is bottle-fed, he can also be involved in this process by taking the baby in his arms.
3. Father-Father Communication with Infants Three Months and Older
In the first months, it is very important to read him a story, even if he doesn’t understand it at all, because this way you can familiarize him with your voice. It is also very valuable for fathers to take him for walks in the park and to involve him in games at home.