New dads

• Work as a team! Help diaper and feed your baby when you can.
• Take baby for a walk while your partner gets some rest.
• Stay healthy for your and baby's sake. If you smoke, quit.

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Your baby's here!  Congratulations!  Does he look like you? Or like your partner? What an exciting time for your family.  So now what do you do?

There's no instruction manual for being a dad. You have to learn as you go. Your partner needs help and support once she and the baby are home. Be patient with her and with the baby. Don't get flustered when the baby cries. Babies cry because they can't tell you what they need. Take time off from work if you can and show that wonderful baby off to all your family and friends!

A great time for Dad to help out is during feedings. Bring the baby to your partner if she's breastfeeding. Help them get comfortable. Support your partner's decision to breastfeed and make it as easy for her as you can.

If you need some help around the house, ask for it.  Your friends and family can help out with cleaning and meals. Don't be shy to ask for help. They'll be happy to give it.

Keep doing all the healthy things you and your partner did during pregnancy. Eat healthy foods, be active and don't smoke. Don't stop doing healthy things just because your baby's here. Being healthy parents can help your baby grow healthy and strong.