Learning to be a New Dad

When you become a new dad, many things cross your mind. How am I going to be as a parent? What kind of role model will I be? How am I going to deal with changing diapers? This is the aspect of being a new dad that worried me. How on earth could I stomach changing some little child’s diaper when I can’t even clean up vomit? Having the supplies at my disposal, calming down the child, finding a stable surface, and then changing the diaper are important. These are some foolproof steps that ensure I will have no problem with the poopy diaper situation. I make sure to have plenty of wipes.

I like to get geared up for the event. If there is a bad mess, I don’t want to be in trouble with just one. I always like to bring an extra diaper too. Many times the baby will wait until I am almost finished with the process and decide its time to go again. Once again, quantity is quality in changing a baby’s diaper. A must have is a tube of some sort of diaper rash cream. If he/she has had a really bad situation sit in the diaper too long, there is a chance that the bottom area may be a little red and sore. I would rather change a happy babies’ bottom over an upset one any day.

When approaching the angry baby, be prepared for the worse. A faulty diaper that leads to leaking or other un-fun things could be a possible situation. If I have this state of mind, nothing can surprise me. It’s easiest to calm the baby down first. If he/she is mad and rolling around, the mess will be much worse. Believe me, changing a diaper is enough fun without the added chore of changing clothes, and bathing because of a mess that was made in a temper tantrum. After the child is calm, I try and find a surface to change him/her on. A stable surface is key to keeping this safe.

The floor is probably the quickest way, but I prefer something a little higher. My back appreciates the fact that I purchased a changing table! It’s up high enough for me to stand up and perform all of my duties as a dad. It is also a great place to stash all of the essential gear for mentioned. If this is not available, I just find a high area to save my back from strain. I do not want to be hunched over more than need be. This can cause a very sore back. After finding that surface, it is time to do the dirty work. The final step is the actual changing and disposal.

I am always aware of what might be hiding in the darkness of the diaper! I pull out at least three wipes before unlatching the sides. Then I fold the old diaper underneath my child. This saves messes on clothing, and tables. Once it’s open, I wipe everything I can see and make sure it is all cleaned. If it is really red, I use the diaper rash cream. This part is key. I slide the new diaper under the old one before taking it away. I have just saved the possibility of a second go around if the child decides the first time wasn’t enough.

I dispose of the dirty diaper in a separate bag and take it to an outside trash-can/shed. I do not want to smell this more than needed. I then sanitize my hands and have completed the task. These steps guide me to a happy butt changing experience. Having the supplies at my disposal, calming down the child, finding a stable surface, and then changing the diaper were the four steps covered. My child appreciates the quickness from them. I follow them as if they were laws, because they ensure I will have no problems. Remembering them give me the confidence needed to never have to worry about the poopy diaper situation again.