>While I think this is a great way to involve dad's and look forward to
>trying to get dad's involved this way and crediting Pat for her brilliance
>PLEASE be mindful that in many cultures it is unacceptable for dads to be
>touching mom's at this time.

Also there are some dads that are not comfortable with this, regardless of
the culture.  When this topic comes up in my practice I approach it in a
different way.  I talk a little about infant massage and bathing.  There are
some great books and handouts that can be found on the internet of this
subject.  I adapted this teaching from something that I discovered with my
first son.  My husband too had a strong desire to be a part of the feeding
routine, but he had a stronger desire for my breastfeeding relationship to
get off on the right foot.  So we struck a compromise that is still in place
today.  He does all the bathing.  From day one my husband has done the
reading on infant massage and given the baths... in fact four years later
(my oldest is 4), I bet I haven't given more than a dozen baths between my
boys.  I don't even sit in the bathroom with him, bathing is his time with
the kids, when they are tiny and he uses the kitchen sink it's his time to
*talk* with his newborns and tell them all his desires for their future,
discuss his love for them.  At the same time he is giving me much needed
time alone or with the older siblings.

I just thought I would share in case some of you hadn't thought of this.  We
just have an understanding in our house... I feed them and get them all
messy, he cleans them up!  :O)

Melisa
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Did you hear? Breast is Best!
Certified Lactation Counselor
IBCLC Exam Candidate
Homeopathic Counselor in training
www.nurturingmama.com

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