Hubby is a sahd now...

[_jellybean_]

And having a bit of a tough time. Anyone have any ideas for words of encouragement? Any tips for him? Thanks.

 

[erikab922]

My DH took about four months of paternity leave - make sure they get out of the house, that's probably the hardest thing. Sometimes blokes are all 'ugh I don't wanna hang out with a bunch of moms at a playgroup'... It's not about *you*, daddy, it's about your kid. We moms tend to know that in our bones but takes the dads a little kick up the backside to get it.

 

[RaisinKane13]

My DH was a sahd for a month because he got laid off of work. It was a huge ego buster. But he finally got into the swing of things and was perfectly fine.(He was even telling me how to do stuff! )

I'd say just let him get use to it and as pp said make sure he gets out. He will go nuts if he is just inside constantly(any one would) Just support him

 

[marymoomin]

My oh has done all the child care for 3 years. He loves it !

 

[Noelle610]

Poor hubby What's he struggling with?

 

[_jellybean_]

Ya know...he really does love it too, but I'm disabled, so I don't do a lot around the house. I think he's struggling with juggling two, and then he also does take care of me a lot. I'm trying to do more though--just took over night feeds.

I'm not really sure. I think it can get a bit monotonous I guess? I think that he maybe wants me to understand how hard it is (you know what I mean?)? Like--just that it's not the easiest thing.

He loves our babies SO much, and is an amazing daddy! It was yesterday when he told me that it's hard sometimes--our little guy is quite energetic now, and I think it's a bit tough to get out a lot because my lo is still feeding a lot during the day. Maybe he just wants me to get that it's not a piece of cake, which I do, but maybe I don't encourage him enough, if that makes sense?

Thanks for the help. Having difficulty finding words today! I will suggest a mommy group. He does go out with them, and they have a lot of interaction with my nephews, which is great...so he gets out every day, but maybe a mommy group might be good too.

 

[Noelle610]

I wonder if a daddy group would help! The exist in most major areas.

I'm not sure about your budget, but in terms of household chores, would it be possible to hire a housekeeper to do the major stuff? Like someone who comes to dust/vacum/clean toilets once a week or every other week? That could lift a real burden.

In terms of the toddler, would it be realistic to hire a babysitter or family friend to take him out a few days a week? That way, they could run him ragged (at the park, local community center, etc) and dad would have some time to relax with the baby. Hopefully the toddler would sleep great at night too!

 

[_jellybean_]

Thanks . That's a great idea-- to hire a babysitter. I keep forgetting to look for one! It's actually something we talked about. Thanks Noelle.

 

[Noelle610]

Thanks . That's a great idea-- to hire a babysitter. I keep forgetting to look for one! It's actually something we talked about. Thanks Noelle.

Good luck! Let us know how it goes

 

[Seity]

My husband has been a SAHD since my first was born 3 years ago. He joined a forum like this for SAHD's and finds it very useful to connect with other guys dealing with the same issues.