| Think about your role
Before your baby is born, you'll need to consider how you and you partner will split your time to care for him. You may want to think about the following:
- How will you balance breadwinning and caring for your baby?
- Will one of you stay home or might you both work part-time and split the childcare?
- What will family finances allow?
- Will other relatives (or friends) be able to help look after the baby?
- What affordable childcare is available locally?
- Would you consider earning less in exchange for more time with your baby?
Take time off work
You may be entitled to paternity leave. Find out if you're eligible.
Some fathers take some of their annual leave after the birth of their baby and others take a combination of paternity leave and annual leave. onsider what's most appropriate in your circumstances for you, your partner and your baby.
Your children will grow up so quickly, so don't put work before them. No one ever said on their deathbed: "I wish I'd spent more time in the office."
Flexible work patterns
Does your job allow flexible working hours? If so, consider working the hours that best fit your baby's waking hours, and allow you to spend time with your partner and help out at home.
Find out if your employer has family-friendly work policies in place - these are available for fathers as well as mothers.
Make the most of the time you have
Getting involved in care when you have a new baby will not only help you bond with your baby but will also give your partner a break when she needs it most. So, for example, if you've been out at work all day, take over in the evening, even if it's only for half an hour. Perhaps give your baby a bath or take him out for a walk.
Make life easier
In the early days, time and sleep will be at a premium. If you have small children you could cook and freeze meals at the weekends to save time during the week. Here are some other ways to save time:
- Reduce household chores, such as ironing, to a minimum
- If you can afford it, consider having your shopping delivered
It can sometimes be isolating looking after babies - you may not have the supportive networks that new mums enjoy and may be the only man at the local parent and toddler group.
If you're thinking of becoming an at-home dad, it's important to:
- Do at least one adult activity without the children once a week
- Keep in touch with the world of work, eg doing a bit of freelance work at home
- Talk to your partner so that a gulf doesn't emerge because you spend your time in a very different ways
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