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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Tactical Advice for New Dads 🧵
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Having children is one of the great joys of life. It is a profound transformation that permanently alters how you experience the world.
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Bring an empty folder to the hospital for paperwork. Bring enough clothes and supplies for ~72 hours. Bring a cooler with food. You may be there longer than expected.
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Prepare your birth announcement before delivery. Take key pictures, add weight details, press send. Everyone will want updates and you will be focused on your newborn.
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Know how to use your car seat BEFORE going to the hospital. You do not want to be adjusting straps the first time with your newborn in the seat.
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Set up a dedicated nursing station with everything within arm's reach: water, snacks, phone charger, etc. Use red lights in the nursery.
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Newborns constantly emit liquids: buy a box of puppy pads and plenty of soft towels. Place a puppy pad under the baby on top of a towel during diaper changes and lounging.
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Poop on a onesie? Rinse with hot water, put in the sun to dry, then wash normally. The stain vanishes - no harsh chemicals needed.
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Focus on helping Mom. Her hands are busy with baby, your hands should be busy helping her. Ensure she gets food, water (important for breast milk production), and a comfortable environment.
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
One well-rested parent is more helpful than two exhausted ones. When it's your turn to rest, make it count. Quality sleep for you means better support for Mom.
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Keep a few empty gallon Ziploc bags in the diaper bag for blow-outs and soiled clothes. Always keep an extra baby outfit and at least one towel in the bag.
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
For especially gross diapers, put in a twist-tie storage bag and tie a knot around the top. You're welcome 💩
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Lots of stuff is marketed as "for babies" that you don't really need. Be skeptical of single-purpose devices targeted at new parents. Focus on quality basics.
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
You don't need a bottle warmer if you own a sous vide machine. Set to 100°F and put a weight on the bottle to prevent floating.
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Only snaps and zippers on onesies (no buttons). Having two zippers on the main opening may seem excessive, but it is actually quite helpful.
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Avoid "baby containers" like swings, seats, rockers, etc. Babies need a flat, solid surface for proper motor development. Look into "tummy time".
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Our species managed to survive for many thousands of years before the baby section at Target existed. You need less than you think.
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Crying is the baby's only way to communicate. Relax and be a calm presence in tense moments. When in doubt, trust Mom's instincts on what baby needs.
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Chris Oakman
@oakmac
Babies sleep best in a quiet, dark room. Contact naps are normal, encouraged, and sweet. But eventually baby needs to sleep independently.
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