Your Family reveals latest NSPCC advice for new dads

The NSPCC's online magazine www.yourfamily.org.uk has launched a new series of tips for first time parents, starting today (25 May) with a look at the challenges facing the 'stay at home dad'.

As more mums choose to return to work more than 200,000 men in the UK now stay at home to look after their children.(1) However, a survey last week found that 60 per cent of fathers feel confused about their role.(2)

NSPCC parenting advisor Eileen Hayes said: ""For those dads who choose to stay at home, the reversal of traditional roles can be a source of tension. In many new families mums will still play the main caring role and dads can end up feeling left out. So dads need to know they are valued and able to get involved wherever possible in looking after their new baby.

"When a new baby arrives in the family it is always an exciting time. As well as these great feelings, it can also be a time of anxiety and new stresses. Just like mums, some dads are immediately bowled over by the strong feelings for their baby. Others can feel a bit over-whelmed at the start, wondering if they are ever going to get the hang of it."

Eileen Hayes' top tips for new dads include:

• Get involved in holding and interacting with your baby right from the birth
• Help out with everyday chores like changing nappies and bath time
• Make time to talk to your partner - even just ten minutes to chat about their day
• Agree roles and give each other a break - its ok to admit you're shattered
• Never be ashamed of asking for help. No one gets it right first time!

More advice for new parents will be appearing at www.yourfamily.org.uk throughout the UK's first ever National Family Week (25 - 31 May). Issues covered include, learning to communicate with your baby, understanding your baby's moods, coping with crying, stress and tiredness, and how to handle 'naughty' behaviour.

New 'stay at home dad' Paul Cherry (36), from London, said: "My life has changed in every way but all for the best. I am studying from home as well as caring for my son full time. Spending every day with my baby is amazing.

"It would be good to see more father-friendly parenting groups. Going to baby classes was awkward at first as it was very much aimed at mums. Recently another dad has joined, so now we want to find other stay at home dads in the area to swap tips!"

Last year, there were over 4,600 calls to the NSPCC Helpline from parents asking for advice on dealing with the everyday stresses of childcare.(3) The charity wants parents to seek help and advice whenever they feel they are struggling to cope, and before problems escalate.

Eileen Hayes continued: "A new baby means relationships may have to change and there is a shift in family dynamics, whether this is a first baby or a new sibling for existing children. It's vital that all parents know its ok to feel unsure about how to cope with their baby, and where to get help when they need it, especially if they are coping with post natal depression."

The NSPCC is calling on the UK Government to improve support and information for first-time parents by making parenting advice a core element of ante-natal classes.  The charity also wants every parent of a new baby to get effective postnatal support from health visitors, as part of the UK Government's Action on Health Visiting programme. 

To read the NSPCC's latest parenting advice, and to enjoy a wealth of other articles about creating a happy and healthy family life, visit www.yourfamily.org.uk.

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NSPCC media office on 020 7825 2516. Out of hours mobile 07976 206 625.

Notes to editors:
1. Source, Office of National Statistics
2. From a survey by www.bounty.com
3. From April 2008 - March 2009, the NSPCC Helpline dealt with 34990 calls / emails with child welfare issues. Of these, 4,689 (13%) were from parents that needed advice with dealing with the everyday stresses of childcare.
4. The NSPCC also produces a wide range of publications for parents, including Baby's First Year. Find out more at www.nspcc.org.uk.
5. Parents needing further advice can also contact the independent charity Parentline Plus on 0808 800 2222. www.parentlineplus.org.uk