The perks of being a father: Bonding with your baby

On Behalf of | May 8, 2017 | Unmarried Couples |

As a father who has never been married to your child’s mother, you may not get the opportunities you need to bond with your baby during early developmental stages if you do not establish paternity in Florida. By taking this crucial step, you are clearing the way to form a healthy attachment with your infant that can make a difference for both of you from now on. At the Law Offices of Beverly L. Brennan, P.A., the team has often provided assistance to fathers who want to be involved in their children’s lives.

Even though your baby’s mother may have primary custody, once you have legally established that you are the biological father, you also have the right to spend time with your child.

According to KidsHealth.org, babies can form bonds with more than one caregiver, and the attachment between you and your child will probably not be the same type he or she shares with the mother. Instead, your relationship will depend on the type of activities you enjoy together. While this will probably involve typical caregiving responsibilities, such as feeding your baby and changing diapers, there are many other things that you can do to foster a healthy father-child bond, such as the following:

  •          Reading to your baby
  •          Singing
  •          Mirroring your baby’s movements
  •          Mimicking the sounds he or she makes
  •          Wearing your baby in a front carrier

Bedtime rituals such as a bath and snuggle, nighttime soothing activities and morning routines are also all very important in your relationship.

More information about parenting plans and custody issues for fathers is available on our web page.

FindLaw Network