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Not Sharing the Load
The learning curve is steep for new mothers and fathers alike -- and
new mothers must be careful not to shut father out. Let him find his way
around. According to Karen Benfield in Parents Magazine, You may feel
proprietary about the baby, and you may initially diaper her faster or
bathe her with more confidence. But your spouse needs to master these
tasks too.
While he is doing his part, don't hover, criticize, or constantly
instruct. Kyle Pruett, M.D., a professor of child psychiatry at Yale
University School of Medicine and author of Fatherneed says:
"Some mothers say they want their spouses to help with the baby but then
don't let the guys assume responsibility," "A mom will say, 'Make sure
she doesn't get cold, don't overfeed her, and don't play too much after
she eats or she'll throw up.'
Be encouraging, step back and let father find his way. Children need
their fathers and fathers need space to be fathers.
Source: Now We Are Three: 10 New-Parent Mistakes to Avoid
By Karen Benfield, parents.com
Wednesday July 21, 2004
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