I always hear the argument: I want to formula feed so my partner can also feed the baby; that way they can bond too. There are many different ways for your partner to bond with your baby.
Skin to Skin
Skin to skin is not just for the birth parent and baby, your partner can also do skin to skin. Skin to skin has benefits for baby, birthing parent, and partner. Skin to skin releases Oxytocin; also known as, the bonding hormone. Oxytocin helps to reduce stress and anxiety, and increase "warm and fuzzy feelings." It works for the parent and the baby. Skin to skin is also the first step to "tummy time."
Babywearing
Carry baby in a baby sling or wrap of some sort. This is especially helpful if mom is still recovering from delivery, and you need to go out. Babies love to be held close, and babywearing is a good opportunity to keep your baby close and to do other needed tasks. As long as you do it safely, babywearing is a wonderful bonding opportunity for your partner and your baby!
Read to Your Baby
Reading to your baby is a good way for your partner to bond with baby, and to help with development. Reading helps your baby to hear your voice and provides comfort for them. In the beginning, the story doesn't matter. Just hearing your partner's voice will provide comfort and closeness.
Assist with Feeding
Even if baby is exclusively breastfeeding and mom is not pumping, your partner can assist with feeding. Your partner can assist with helping you get comfortable for the feed. They can help to get snacks and drinks for the feed. Alternatively, if you are trying to avoid bottles, your partner can assist with alternate feeding methods: cup feeding, spoon feeding, or syringe feeding.
Bonding
Feeding is not the only way for someone to bond with a baby. Bonding is an important aspect of initiating a relationship with the baby. With this tactics, you are able to assist the birth parent and bond with your baby. Congratulations on your new, or soon to be new, baby and get to bonding!
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