The 8th 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.
In the eighth month your baby interacts much more with you.
They recognize you and may show excitement. You may understand their cries better.
They may crawl or reach for unsafe things. You may feel ready for longer outings.
Don't refuse help from your partner out of pride — teamwork matters, especially when both partners are dads.
Flexibility around naps and feeds can bring deep satisfaction.
For your baby
- Nested cups, spoons at meals, mirror play.
- Safe ways to bang and throw toys.
For your partner
- Low-pressure family day together.
- Discuss biggest adjustments.
- Breakfast out; babysitter for a couple hours.
For yourself
- Reconnect with friends.
- Reflect on your father's parenting.
- Call a friend with kids about their experience.
From Becoming a Dad: How Fatherhood Changes Men by Bruce Linton, Ph.D., MFT — practical tips from dads in Fathers' Forum groups.