2 weeks away - Advice needed for this father-to-be

This is exactly opposite of what our pediatricians have told us to do. They've said that, while they're still a baby, feed the kid when he/she is hungry and put 'em to sleep when they're sleepy. But they said to implement a schedule for them once they're not an baby any more.

 

I used to play golf about every other week. This year I've played 4 times. I miss it, but enjoy the time with my kids much more. I feel guilty leaving them to go play golf when I have my days off.

 

All pediatricians have different opinions. Ours told us the whole point of waking them and feeding them on a schedule, even when they are little, is to reduce the amount of times they wake up crying, keeping their stress level down. In the long term, this supposedly helps their temperament. So far, including ourselves, we know of 6 families that did it this way and had great results. All 6 kids are extremely laid back, well behaved and hard sleepers.

They are almost never too young to put them on a schedule, even if it means waking them up 2-3 times a night to feed them.

 

Yeah - you're right (about pediatrician opinions). Well, I've been happy with doing the opposite and, though I choose a different path, I can respect yours. Glad to hear it's worked out for you. We've been very happy with our method, too and we, too, have great kids.

Let's hope it stays that way, eh? (I hear the teen years are gonna be brutal)

 

Congrats!

It's not that tough, love the little guy/gal and they'll love you right back. Just roll with what comes and be prepared for tons of advice you won't need and some you will. I've been a stay at home dad since my son was born last year, and it's the best gig I ever had.

And a note for the digital camera - if you take all your pics with one, be sure to have a backup and keep it current. My computer crashed and I almost lost all the pics from birth to 3 months. I saved them, but mama wasn't happy until I did.

 

Good luck with fatherhood - its a wonderful experience, but it is only part of your life.

I am older than most on this board, and have a different take on advice.

The most important part of being a good dad is being a good role model. What you do, how you live YOUR life, is way more important than anything you tell your children. Having a child that wants to be "just like their dad" (as I did) is an intimidating prospect for most of us.

Although it is hard for you to see right now, realize that your kids will grow up and be gone before you know it. Your kids are not the most important people in your life, your wife is, and your relationship with your wife is more important than your relationship with your children. Children come second. Your marriage and your kids will benefit from seeing this.

 

wish you and her the best drew.

 

Another tip: Don't waste a lot of money on baby shoes. More than likely they'll never wear them. Our kids just stayed in their socks most of the time. I think it also helps them when it's time to start walking because they have a better feel for the ground.

Unless your taking your kid out in public and showing him/her off you really don't need a lot of different outfits either.

 

I have 3 and a 4th on the way in January..

Financially speaking.. Buy Diapers galore and don't stop buying diapers. Stop buying new clothes for your baby and todler because guess what this isn't a fashion show and all they are going to do is spit,spill,vomit all over it. My advice shop at a 2nd hand clothing stores like Childrens Orchard. It can save you $1,000's of dollars a year. If you have plenty of toy's STOP buying more now... Your baby won't need them. If people ask you what I should get for the baby tell them Diapers or Wal-mart gift card so that you can buy Diapers..

Now maybe I'm not stressing this enough but you have to buy DIAPERS!!!!

2nd if your baby's momma is not going to breasfeed your in deep SH@% because similac is not cheap and you would have to buy like 2 - 3 cans a week. Try $20 - $25 a can buddy.. That adds up quick.

Sign up on Upromise.com it's the best thing you can do because it's free and easy.

And lastly to all the parents have PATIENCE!!!!