Sponsored: Newborns — A Tag team sport

A newborn is an all-hands-on-deck kind of adventure. But when it comes to babies, some men think women instinctually know it all and can feel a little left out of the process. Get Dad on board from the start with a few tools of his own and a plan to divide and conquer.

Early adopter Set up a mini boot camp with the nurses so Dad can learn from the pros and work out his nervousness holding his newborn. At home, ID a few tasks that Dad can own: sterilizing or prepping bottles, changing diapers, or even planning meals.

Tommee Tippee Steamers bottle sterilizer

Tool Man Let’s face it, men hardly like to hold purses, so save Dad from the pink and cutesy diaper bag and give him his own. A messenger bag or knapsack with easy-to-find compartments will prevent those “I can’t find it” phone calls. Add in a changing pad and you have a full kit. A new dad will be more likely to hit the road with baby in tow when he has everything he needs.

Timed release Strollers built to move are great workout partners. Dad can squeeze in a workout during naps and take sleeping baby for a spin while he runs.

Times that bind Especially in the first months, many Dads will miss the day with baby, so carve out quality time that he can spend one-on-one with baby like bathtime. Skin-to-skin contact is also essential for bonding, even for dad, and is helped by adjustable wraps and carriers that fit any size.

Moby Wrap Baby Carrier

Sleep cycles Sharing the nighttime routine with Dad will give Mom a few more hours to refresh and prevent baby from training to just one of you. If dad works during the week, try splitting the night shifts on weekends for middle of the night wakings. You’ll both appreciate sleep inducers like gentle sound machines and swaddle sacks — saving you from the traditional brain twisting origami — when you’re too tired to remember your own names.

Halo SleepSak Swaddle

The First Years Sounds for Silence Nursery