Kangaroo Father Care: A Father’s Warmth That Helps Babies Thrive
An arrival of a newborn in the family is always considered as the Mother's responsibility. She is the one who will look after the baby and only she is considered as the whole and soul of the newborn. But, we need to change this mentality. Fathers are equally important and their role also plays a major support in the growth and development of a newborn. One beautiful and scientifically supported way dads can bond with their newborn is through Kangaroo Father Care.
Kangaroo Father Care is a method where the father holds the baby skin-to-skin against his chest. Because of this, it creates warmth, comfort and security for the baby, especially for premature or low birth weight infants. Due to this, a powerful and emotional connection is built-up and it creates a safe place for the baby.
Kangaroo care is mainly introduced for premature babies, who require extra care and warmth. Study says that fathers who actively participate in this Kangaroo care, provide equal energy of developmental and emotional benefits like mothers.
What is Kangaroo Father Care?
Kangaroo Father Care involves placing the baby upright on the father’s bare chest, allowing direct skin-to-skin contact. The baby is then covered with a soft blanket or cloth to maintain warmth and comfort.
This close contact helps stabilize the baby’s heartbeat, breathing, and body temperature. It also creates a calming environment where the baby feels protected and relaxed.
Benefits of Kangaroo Father Care
Stronger Emotional Bond
When fathers spend skin-to-skin time with their newborns, it helps create a deep emotional attachment. Babies recognize their father’s voice, heartbeat, and touch, which makes them feel safe and comforted. This bonding experience also boosts a father’s confidence in caring for his child.
Helps Regulate Baby’s Body Temperature
Newborns, especially premature babies, can struggle to maintain their body temperature. Kangaroo Father Care naturally provides warmth through body contact. This helps the baby stay stable and reduces the stress on their tiny body.
Supports Better Sleep and Relaxation
Babies held in skin-to-skin contact often sleep more peacefully and cry less. The father’s heartbeat and breathing rhythm help calm the baby’s nervous system. Better sleep also supports healthy brain development and growth.
Encourages Father Involvement in Baby Care
Many fathers may initially feel unsure about handling a newborn. Kangaroo father care gives dads an opportunity to actively participate in daily baby care. This involvement strengthens family bonding and creates a shared parenting experience.
May Support Breastfeeding Journey
Although fathers do not breastfeed, their emotional support plays a major role in successful breastfeeding. When mothers receive rest and emotional encouragement from involved fathers, it creates a more positive environment for feeding and newborn care.
Tips for Practicing Kangaroo Father Care
Kangaroo Care is a special practice that must be done in a quiet, serene and calm environment.
Make sure that the baby first feels comfortable and even the father must get a relaxing time with the baby.
No phone calls and no other distractions. Everyday this can be practiced for 30 minutes.
Make sure that the baby is wearing a diaper and is placed safely and comfortably against the chest.
Cover the baby gently with a soft cloth or blanket to maintain warmth.
Avoid distractions and enjoy calm bonding time with the newborn.
Practice regularly to help the baby become familiar with the father’s touch and voice.
When Can Fathers Start Kangaroo Care?
This can be started immediately, after the birth of the baby and by taking the permission of the Doctor. The earlier you start, the earlier you get the results. Hospitals and neonatal care units today increasingly encourage fathers to participate in skin-to-skin care as part of newborn support.
Final Thoughts
Kangaroo Father Care is a beautiful practice and reminder that fathers are so important and their bonding, and connection with the baby plays an important role. This simple practice gives warmth, builds trust and the baby's development is faster. They also feel secure and safe.At Little Fern Ghatkopar, we believe parenting is a shared journey filled with love, care, and connection. Supporting both mothers and fathers in newborn care helps create a healthier and happier start for every baby.