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A new Mom and Dad are created
every time a new baby is born.
But, I feel a little sorry for
the new Dad…he doesn’t know what’s coming. For the predominance of his
relationship with Mom, he has been the “man”, her man. Her interest and
job has been him (or so he thinks). But, Mom’s new interest is the
protection and nurturing of her new “bundle of joy”.
Moms seem to flow into
motherhood. Once their little one is in their arms, there is an instant
connection and sense of peace between the two of them.
New Dads don’t seem to have a
clue. It’s like they are tripping over the obstacle course, while mom is
doing a wind sprint to becoming a new parent. The new Dad seems to
struggle to learn just how to hold his new baby. He gets easily confused
by his new baby’s non-stop crying (despite the fact that new Dad is
rocking his baby at 50 miles per hour).
When it’s time for the baby’s
first vaccination shots, new Dads easily get into trouble with the moms.
Their babies are held down, and needles (with the vaccines) are pushed
into the baby’s thigh muscles. After the shots are given, the babies
will scream like they never have (so far in their lives).
New Dads seem to be proud and
amused by hearing their baby’s temper, and will smile and laugh, while
the Moms become saddened and even cry. Once Mom sees new Dad laughing, a
sharp and piercing look cuts an end to new Dad’s amusement.
Poor new Dad…now he looks like
a scolded beagle. New Dad now has to apologize all the way out to the
car.
Some new Dads feel like the
“third wheel”, the “chauffeur”, or the “grown up baby” that Mom feels
doesn’t need the attention anymore.
The truth of the matter is that
men are essentially babies without diapers (most of us). We want the
attention, approval, and applause of our wives (almost constantly). We
want to be fed on time, and if not, we become grumpy (and “cry”). We
want our playtime (golf, softball, video games, etc.), and “pout” if we
are told to end it early. That’s our nature.
But, for a brief period, you
new Dads will have to be the “best supporting actor” to mom.
Soon your time will come when
your little one will run to you, hug you, and say Happy Father’s Day!!!
Dr. Mike Pappas is an area
pediatrician who is board certified in both general pediatrics and
pediatric critical medicine. His office is located at 4607 W. Sylvania
Avenue, #202, Toledo, Ohio (Phone 419 841 0772). He welcomes new
patients and offers second opinions. Questions may be directed to him at
www.intensivecaring.com.
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