Hey all,

We are expecting our first at the end of September, and we are tired and scared and stressed. I have been looking for dad groups locally but haven’t found any. Just reading through a few posts here and I feel less alone. Thank you.

  • @paddirn
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    811 months ago

    I would’ve preferred if they called the group OnlyDads… because of the implication.

  • @thedoodlenoodle
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    411 months ago

    Congrats on the little one!

    Although, being a having a baby is a beautiful miracle, don’t forget that it is normal to feel stressed, overwhelmed, or underequipped.

    Don’t let anyone make you feel guilty about having those feelings or needing help to survive. Especially those who say it gets easier. It does, but new challenges always come in place of the things that get better.

    I have two kids now, son is close to 3 years and daughter is 6 months, and they are the loves of my life.

    Don’t get me wrong, it’s difficult, but I would easily take a bullet for either of them.

  • @[email protected]
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    fedilink
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    211 months ago

    I’ve got three pieces of unsolicited advice:

    • your baby momma is going to get a lot of pressure about breast feeding and avoiding formula. It’s bullshit. Do whatever works for her. Support her hard on this - breast feeding doesn’t work for everyone, and there’s weird judgement that goes along with it. Tell her your Internet friends think she’s doing a great job and everyone else can fuck off.

    • that previous point goes for everything. Your baby momma is going to get a lot of judgement from other women regardless of what she does. Have her back. With the exception of major medical decisions, it’ll all work out with time.

    • don’t expect to be head over heels in love with your baby right away. They’re weird little gremlins who require a shit tonne of support and give little in return. You will love them in time. Until then, go through the motions. That is your weird little gremlin and it needs you to be it’s dad.

    Let us know when the kid arrives. And welcome to the club.

  • @orangeNgreen
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    211 months ago

    I’ve found that internet dads are some of the most helpful and supportive people out there. Reach out if you have any questions along the way!