JOURNEY TO FATHERHOOD

Becoming a father for the first time is a transformative experience, filled with surprises, unanticipated joys, and the constant balancing act of supporting a partner while navigating the new responsibilities of fatherhood. We delve into the experiences of first-time dads, exploring their unique journeys through the highs and lows of fatherhood. From the instant bond formed with their little ones to the unexpected challenges that come with the territory, these dads share a little snippet of their journey.

 
Join us as we celebrate the dads this Father's Day.

 

Nick Davidson 

What aspects of fatherhood did you feel least prepared for?
Just about all of it; but as with most new parents… the sleep. The disjointed sleep is very difficult, and then trying to function normally with consistently bad sleep is awful. 

 
What do you wish was more commonly shared for new dads
Where possible try and do the dream feed at night in the first few months. Not only does it give mum a well earned break, but it’s bonding that you never ever forget. Having them look up in your eyes and then fall asleep is a pretty special feeling. 

 
How do you balance your personal needs with your responsibilities as a dad?
I’m very lucky that my wife and I both primarily can work from home, and run our own businesses. That means we are both able to spend a lot of time with Teddy and share the load a bit. But we haven’t nailed the balance yet. The most important things to balance is exercise, good food and sleep; and they are the hardest to come by when you’ve got a newborn but we are slowly creating some structures so we can claw some of that back and it means redefining what those needs are and making some compromises. We managed to get a little balance by dedicating some time to each person where you’re not the primary baby watcher for a nap (turn off the monitor on your phone while doing it);  getting incidental exercise where possible (Portier carrier at the stand up desk or coffee walks is a win) and taking advantage of some friends who are pretty handy in the kitchen. 

What was the biggest surprise you encountered as a first-time dad?

I know it’s very cliché, but I can’t describe how instantly we fell in love with our little Cleopatra. Not only that but the dynamic of my relationship with Nicola changed in a way I didn’t expect. We have become even closer through shared experiences and challenges, but we also had to navigate new areas of stress and learn how to adjust together.

 

As your partner experienced the transition to motherhood, how did you best support her through that journey?

I was fortunate enough to have 4 weeks leave which in hindsight was so important. It allows enough time to set a routine. I mastered the fine art of tea making and have truly perfected the washing – little things make a huge difference in the survival of new parents.

 

What do you wish was more commonly shared for new dads? 

I had a close friend give me good advice. Parenting is like running a marathon with no finish line, so pace yourself and don’t sweat the small stuff. Your partner is going through a lot, so be kind and gracious - and encouraging towards one another.

 

How do you balance your personal needs with your responsibilities as a dad? 

Nicola and I are quite traditional in that sense. I go to work and provide for us financially whilst Nicola is currently a stay at home mum. Both are equally important as we are a team. And we are fortunate to be able to make this work. Whilst going to work might not necessary be seen as a responsibility as a dad, in our family we do.

 

Connor Rozee

What was the biggest surprise you encountered as a first-time dad?
I think just how quickly you fall in love with your little one. It is such an instant bond and is pretty surreal when you see them for the first time. 
 
As your partner experienced the transition to motherhood, how did you best support her through that journey?
I just tried to make sure I was there for her emotionally and offered to help whenever I could. It’s a pretty demanding first few weeks, so I just made sure she was comfortable and if she needed anything I was there.
 
How do you balance your personal needs with your responsibilities as a dad?
I still try to find time when I can to do things for myself. My partner and I share the responsibilities and make sure we communicate well! Honestly, we just loving doing things as a family and spending as much time together as possible.