My wife won’t let me do a thing but I want to get better at it. How can I help?

It is well documented that a couple’s relationship is strengthened when the care given to a baby is shared. This involves joint decision-making and making choices regarding care together. Babies can pick up on positive and negative feelings expressed by their parents. It is extremely important that both the mother and the father bond with the child, for all concerned. It is common for some women to feel that it is her responsibility to care for the baby, however, having occasional breaks from the childcare can have positive effects on her long term mental health. Taking a gentle approach and offering to perform routine tasks in front of her can install confidence in her regarding your ability to care for the baby. This may take a little time, but the reward is worth it.

See: Heath, T. (1995) New fatherhood. New Generation (June): 11.