Week 4: Finding a Groove (and Maybe a Little Sanity)

Paternity Leave:

If you are fortunate like me, you get 4 weeks paid paternity leave to allow fathers time to bond with their new child and to help with childcare. The unfortunate part about it is that it only lasts 4 weeks. Yes, I am there to allow my wife time to recuperate, but once it’s over, the routine that we have gotten used to will need to change. With this being the last week, I am using the time to continue to be as helpful as I can while also preparing for my return to work. I would use this time to make an intentional effort to spend time with your partner if you are the one that must return to work.

Diaper Sizes:

Choosing the right diaper size for your baby is crucial for their comfort and preventing leaks. Newborn diapers are typically designed for babies up to 10 pounds. However, every baby grows at their own pace, so it's essential to monitor your baby's weight and consider their size and shape. My baby reached the weight to start size 1 diaper this week and even though the diaper looked a little big, it will help prevent those blowouts. I recommend if you’re asking for diapers for your baby, get a minimum number of newborn diapers and more of the size 1. My first son spent the longest in size 1 than any other size. To determine if they need to move up in size, look for signs like red marks on their skin, the diaper not fully covering their bottom, or the fastening tapes not reaching the center of the waistband. Remember, a properly fitting diaper should have a snug fit around the waist and legs without being too tight.

Milk Sensitivity:

Going with the theme that every baby is different; milk sensitivity may show signs in one baby and not another. In our case, it was shown in both of our children by this time. Milk sensitivity in babies can manifest in various ways, often causing discomfort and affecting their overall well-being. In our case, both of our sons developed a skin rash along with discomfort. The first time we saw it; we had to learn from our pediatrician what was going on and now we have an idea and could immediately make the adjustment. We had to change our formula with our first child 4 to 5 times before we landed on one that he tolerated.

Sleep: A Glimpse of the Light at the End of the Tunnel

Sleep is still a precious commodity, but you might be noticing some positive changes. Those marathon feeding sessions might be shortening slightly. You might even be able to convince your little one to nap for longer stretches. The longer stretches can push the feeding sessions at times to every 3 hours. You're still tired, but you're starting to function on a little less caffeine. Just know that we do not take these moments for granted and it’s only going to get a little better as we keep going.

The Art of the Swaddle (and Other Tricks):

You've mastered the swaddle (or at least, you think you have!). You may even give the nurses a run for their money in the hospital. You've discovered the magic of white noise, the pacifier, and the ever-reliable baby carrier. You’re starting to learn what works for your baby and what doesn’t. You're becoming a pro at soothing your little one, and those frantic cries are starting to feel a little less overwhelming. We are still trying to decode all those cries to figure out what is needed, but we are getting more comfortable with what may be needed for our baby.

Tummy Time:

This week we started Tummy Time. You are instructed once the belly button falls off and it is healed, then you need to start tummy time. Tummy time is essential for a baby's development. It helps strengthen their neck, shoulder, and back muscles, which are crucial for rolling over, sitting up, crawling, and eventually walking. During tummy time, babies learn to lift their heads, push up on their arms, and explore the world around them. My wife has trouble when I put the baby down for tummy time. Tummy time often causes frustration with the baby and causes them to cry. My wife is uncomfortable with this, and I often must do tummy time without her around to hear the baby cry.

Finding Your Tribe:

Connecting with other new parents or experienced parents can be incredibly valuable. Sharing experiences, tips, and commiserating over sleepless nights can provide a much-needed sense of community and support. There’s nothing like hearing about someone else going through the same thing that you are going through. It could also be beneficial to hear how experienced parents handled something and some things that worked for them. I would use caution with all the advice given because not everything that is told to you may be appropriate. Always seek advice from your pediatrician before doing anything that someone else has told you to do. Remember this is your baby and you will do anything to help them and not put them in harm’s way.

Tips for Week 4:

Continue to prioritize self-care: Even if it's just for a few minutes each day, make time for yourself.

Prioritize partner: Make sure they get a few minutes each day to make time for themselves.

Embrace the mess: Don't strive for perfection. Let go of the laundry, the dishes, and the to-do list.

Cherish these moments: These early days fly by. Soak up every cuddle, every smile, every coo. Remember to snap a few photos to be able to look back on when they’re older.

Week four is a time of small victories and growing confidence. You're still learning, still adapting, but you're starting to find your rhythm. You're falling deeper in love with your little one every single day, and that's a feeling that's worth all the sleepless nights and diaper changes.