Your 30 Day Dad Prep List (That Actually Matters)
1 Month Dad Prep List
A reflection from one year into fatherhood
The girls just turned one. It feels like yesterday I was pacing the room and reading about baby monitors while Viv nested and somehow survived on two hours of sleep. If you are in that final stretch before baby day, this is for you. Here is what mattered and what did not.
Focus on your partner
Sit with her when she is uncomfortable or anxious. Fold laundry without being asked. Ask what do you need today and be ready for any answer. If she feels seen and safe you are doing most of what matters.
Decide what kind of dad you want to be
I asked every dad I knew one question. What kind of dad are you. Their answers helped me find my own footing.
- The over preparer. Plan enough to create peace not pressure.
- The provider. Presence beats any check.
- The chill guy. Stay engaged and take small steps early.
- The googler. Confidence comes from doing not reading.
- The fixer. Sometimes the fix is to hold your kid and breathe.
The 30 day prep
Week 1 basic Sleep when you can. Prep the car seat and the bag. Learn the route to the hospital. Turn on auto pay for bills.
Week 2 partnership Ask your partner what she is nervous about. Plan one easy date night at home. Make a short list of comfort meals.
Week 3 support crew Set clear visit times for family. Find one dad to text for help and laughs. Save your favorite takeout number.
Week 4 head and heart Write who you want to be as a dad. Pray or journal on it. This baby does not need a perfect dad. They need you.
What we used and loved
Registry Babylist is cute and shows the fruit of the week. You will use that for small talk more than you think.
Sleep and routine Taking Cara Babies course
Books that helped
- The Happiest Baby on the Block by Harvey Karp MD
- The Expectant Father by Armin A Brott
Add your voice
What helped you most before baby day?
Related: listen to the pod
