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"MILITARY DAD, NEW BABY"

MILITARY DAD, NEW BABY
“My husband is in the military and has not seen our 7-month-old daughter for five months. She is EXTREMELY attached to Mommy and I am worried about how he is going to be received when he comes home. She is a very passionate baby and screams bloody murder when a stranger gets too close. As soon as I pick her up, she is fine. I am a stay at home mom and all of our family is on the other side of the country, so she rarely sees anyone but me. We both know that it isn't going to be easy, but do you have any suggestions to make the transition easier? We look at pictures of Daddy and listen to his voice on tape, but I am afraid that it isn't going to be enough. It is going to break his heart if she rejects him.”

So far, you are doing a great job of keeping dad involved in this new baby’s life. I think it would help to change your mindset from “It is going to break his heart if she rejects him” to “yes, baby will probably take some time to warm up to daddy, and we’ll deal with it when that happens”. Dad should expect some of the cold shoulder; he is a bit of a stranger to her. Baby will sense your apprehension, so it is important to not stress over this. Do the things you’re doing now, and when dad gets home, be your natural “happy to be re-united” self. Baby will soon learn that you love this man, and she will soon follow. Spend more intimate family time together - let your baby see dad and mom being close and affectionate. Family walks - go for frequent family outings. Have dad carry baby around most of the time. Baby may be too distracted by the surroundings to realize he is in the "wrong" parent’s arms. Above all, realize that this phase will pass.

Dr. Jim

   
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