The bond between a father and his child does not just begin at birth. It is formed well before, from the first months of pregnancy. As Samuel Salama, gynecologist, explains in a recent publication, it is essential for future dads to interact with their baby even before he comes into the world. Indeed, the expert emphasizes that “the mother makes the child, the child makes the father“However, it would be a shame not to take advantage of the nine months prescribed to forge valuable links.
Simple gestures to connect
There are several ways expectant fathers can begin to connect with their child. Placing your hand on the mother’s stomach and trying to feel the baby’s movements are simple gestures that can strengthen this budding bond. Samuel Salama also advises talking to the baby, because “he will hear your voice, he will perceive something different from the mother’s voice“. This not only helps begin to build a connection, but also helps the baby recognize and become familiar with his father’s voice.
Don’t overdo it, just be present
Creating little rituals can also be a great way to connect with your baby. This does not require grandiose deeds; regularity and sincerity are key. “Just be there… and dare that first link“, as the text accompanying Salama’s video mentions. This could be as simple as regularly sharing a quiet moment with the baby, by speaking softly or sharing soft music. Little by little, the baby learns to recognize these moments and find calm in his father’s voice.
This early bonding isn’t just about an emotional benefit for the baby; it is also beneficial for the father. Allowing yourself to enter into a relationship from pregnancy means actively taking your place in the child’s life, thus going beyond the idea that the child “does” the father at birth.
In conclusion, the path to fatherhood does not begin at birth, but from the first moments of pregnancy. Samuel Salama’s advice highlights simple but profound actions that future dads can take to develop a valuable bond with their future child, a bond that prepares them for the adventure of fatherhood that awaits them.