Week 5: Finding Our Rhythm (and Maybe Getting Some Sleep)

Sleep: A Glimpse of Normalcy

Remember those first few sleepless nights? They seem like a distant memory now. You've likely discovered a sleep routine that works for your baby (and for you!). Maybe it's a consistent bedtime routine, a white noise machine, or the magic of the swaddle, or the double swaddle. It could be a combination of all the above. Whatever it is, you're starting to see the fruits of your labor in the form of longer stretches of sleep.

Feedings:

My son at this point is feeding 8 to 10 times a day and is eating 3 to 3.5 ounces of formula. This is the reason for the longer stretches of naps that he has throughout the day and night. Of course, we will take any extra sleep or me time that we can get throughout the day. I can tell at this point that he has gained some weight and is also starting to get a little longer. My first son wasn’t eating nearly as much by this time and wasn’t gaining weight as fast. I know that every baby is different, and I will cherish these moments even if I have to increase the grocery budget to account for the formula. Of course this is something I will happily do.

Discovering Your Baby's Personality:

Week five is when you start to really see your baby's unique personality shine through. You may start to notice smiles happening while they are sleeping. It makes you wonder what they are dreaming about that makes them smile is constantly a question. Those fleeting smiles are becoming more frequent. My son likes to give me a side eye when I take longer than I should with changing his diaper or bringing him a bottle. It just makes me chuckle throughout the encounter. The little things you start to notice will turn into big things and you can start to imagine what their personality is going to be like when they get bigger. It's a fascinating time of discovery.

Venturing Out: The First Family Outings

You might even be brave enough to venture out for a longer outing. This can be determined by whether you stay in an area with cold weather or warm weather. Maybe it’s a trip to the park, a visit to family, or even a coffee date with other new parents. In our case, with the baby being born in the winter, we elected to not venture out for a big outing due to the possibility of the baby getting sick. If you are fortunate to stay in a warm area, I would definitely recommend going out for an outing, just make sure that you are protecting your little one. This outing is just a reminder that there's a world outside your home, and you must start navigating it with your little one in tow.

Play time:

Are you even a parent if you haven’t tried to have a staring contest with your child? What about mimicking the action of conversation with every grunt and coo? The things we do as parents to keep ourselves entertained while we are watching the baby. The baby doesn’t do much, but it is important to mimic conversations with your baby. This helps to get them used to the back and forth. The staring contest may be extra at this point just so you don’t lose your sanity, but you may still lose it trying to win against someone that only blinks 3 times an hour.

One-month photos:

This week is a special week because the baby turns one month. One-month photos are a beautiful way to capture the fleeting moments of your baby's first month. It's a time of rapid change, and these photos will serve as a precious reminder of just how tiny and new they once were. Consider capturing their tiny hands and feet, their sleepy smiles, and their adorable yawns. You can also incorporate props like soft blankets, milestone markers, or even a special outfit. Remember to keep it simple, comfortable, and safe for your baby. The goal is to capture genuine moments that you'll cherish for years to come.

Finding Your Support System:

Connecting with other parents is crucial during this time. Whether it's a local parent group, a playgroup, or simply connecting with friends who have children, having a support system can make a world of difference. Also, finding your support system as a new dad is absolutely vital. It's easy to feel isolated in the early days, but you're not alone. Reach out to other dads, whether through local groups, online forums, or even just friends who are also fathers. Sharing experiences, swapping tips, and simply having someone to vent to can make a world of difference. Don't forget about your partner, family, and close friends either. Open communication is key; let them know what you need, whether it's a listening ear, practical help, or just a break. Building a strong support network will not only ease the challenges of new fatherhood but also enrich the experience, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared understanding.

Tips for Week 5:

• Continue to prioritize self-care: Even if it's just for a few minutes each day, make time for yourself. I know I am sounding like a broken record, but this is important!

• Don't be afraid to ask for help: Whether it's from your partner, family, or friends, don't hesitate to ask for assistance when you need it.

• Celebrate the small victories: Every successful feeding, every long nap, every joyful smile is a victory worth celebrating.

• Remember to capture the memories. It’s one-month photos time. Use this time to capture the growth not just your baby has made, but also yourself.

Week five is a time of growth and discovery. You're learning more about yourself as a father, and you're deepening your bond with your little one every single day. As you watch your little one grow and develop, you'll realize just how quickly these early weeks fly by. Take a moment to appreciate the small miracles, the quiet moments of connection, and the overwhelming love that fills your heart. These are the memories you'll treasure forever.