The 2nd Month of Fatherhood
All kinds of dads. Fathers' Forum welcomes gay fathers, husbands parenting together, single dads, adoptive and foster dads, and every family where men are raising children. Bruce's original book often described heterosexual couples; these pages are updated for today's families — including how gender, masculinity, and parenting roles are changing. Swap in your own names and situation wherever the text mentions a partner's pregnancy or birth.
Congratulations — you're in the second month of fatherhood! Your adventure is underway!
The first month was adjusting to a new situation. By month two your baby may feel more like a person in your arms.
Your baby is more active and alert. They can probably tell the difference between you and your partner and deepen attachment as you hold and soothe them.
You may feel stretched balancing family and work. Be patient — you'll find adjustments that work for your family.
Surrendering to your baby's schedule, especially evenings, may reduce tension around bedtime.
For your baby
- Hold your baby as much as possible without distractions.
- With your partner, bathe your baby together and talk about what helps them feel comfortable.
For your partner
- Tell your partner what you appreciate about their parenting.
- Take the baby so your partner can have time just for themselves.
For yourself
- Talk about balancing work and family with your partner and friends.
- Find other new dads — prenatal class, adoption groups, or gay dad networks.
From Becoming a Dad: How Fatherhood Changes Men by Bruce Linton, Ph.D., MFT — practical tips from dads in Fathers' Forum groups.