Some of our MiLOWE Village Dads (even our own!) stepped up to share their top tips for new dads who would like to be helpful partners and impactful fathers. Becoming a parent is one of the wildest journeys you could embark on. We hope these sweet reminders will help you on your way!

“Trust your partner.
On our first baby I always felt the need to voice my opinion and help with every element. But a lot of time it’s better to just support, listen and agree. I learned from our experiences together the first time around, and the second time around I let go a lot more which gives my wife the support and comfort she needs to ‘do her thing.’ For us mommy always knows best. Trust your partner.”

- Haim (Abba to 6 month & 2 yr old)

“Plan things with your kid that are unexpected; blow their minds by constantly showing them new things, new places and beautiful wonders of the earth.”

- Alex (Papa to 22 month old)

“Find that physical connection that’s unique to you and your baby. I’ve mastered the baby burrito and football hold so much so that my baby falls asleep effortlessly under my arms. I get to have my special moment with Monarch during naps and bedtime and my wife appreciates me for it.”

- Bryson (Dad to 7 month old)

“Recognize that:
a- sleep is highly over-rated.
b- time to get a bigger car.
c- congrats, you’ve been promoted to “help mate”!”

- Ken (Dad to 34 & 36 yr olds)

“While the beginning may seem like the biggest uphill climb, I promise you it will get easier and better and cooler and more fun than you could have ever imagined. Just remember that they will be just as cool as you are if you keep your cool through the challenging times.”

- RJ (Papa to 3 yr old)

“Share what you most love with your kid. Right away and all the time thereafter. If it’s art or food or movies or science or music or sports (I know, it’s surprising but some people actually enjoy do sports, or so I am told) you can baby-ify it and jump start your kid’s imagination and creativity. And as a bonus, you might even re-inspire yourself along the way.”

- Chris (Daddy to 3 yr old)

“Be a model to your children. Be the person you want them to be. It may seem like it will take forever but this continued act of sincerity and transparency towards your children will be realized. Further, help them to know themselves. They are the only ones who can recognize who they are and who they want to become.”

- Nestor (Pops to 31, 36 & 41 yr olds)

“Never try something new at night. And you’re going to get a lot of advice - solicited and unsolicited. Don’t let it consume you and in the end do what’s best for your family.”

- Stephen (Daddy to 1 & 3 yr olds)

Love & strength to all families during these extra trying times. Thanks to all the dads that sent in their lovely notes. If you would like to share anything with us, comment below or DM us @milowekids.