Posted: 6/3/2015
A baby’s birth is one of the most important events in a man’s life, but for many first-time fathers it’s also a time of anxiety and stress as they face the challenge of unfamiliar tasks and a new role.
That’s why the Women & Family Education Department at Parkland Health & Hospital System is joining forces with the City of Dallas’ WIC Peer Dad group for a special event designed to help first-time dads discover how to be a dependable father for the newborn and partner to the new mom.
“Celebrating Fathers” is a one-day educational and support event scheduled to take place June 4 in the MacGregor W. Day Auditorium at Parkland Memorial Hospital, 5201 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, 75235. Men attending the free celebration can choose from one of two sessions, the first one from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and the second from 2 to 4 p.m. Both sessions will be conducted in English and Spanish.
The event is open to all fathers, and mothers also are welcome.
“Fatherhood is one of the most important roles any man will undertake during his life, but sometimes men may feel unprepared and unsure of how to proceed,” said Carlos de Oliveira, Parkland chaplain who works with new fathers. “We want to help answer concerns and questions men might have about becoming dependable fathers and parenting partners.”
One of the most common concerns for new fathers is how to deal with a baby’s crying spells. At the event they will learn about calming techniques such as the Five S’s: swaddle, side position, shushing, swinging and sucking. Other topics include being supportive of moms and their emotions and how men can manage their own feelings of anxiety and stress that come with being a father.
In addition to basics such as learning how to change diapers, fathers will hear about the important role they can play in supporting and encouraging moms to breastfeed their newborns. Fathers also will take part in discussions and education on topics such as the importance of skin-to-skin contact and safe sleeping positions.
“Fathers have a very important role not only in the development of a child, but also in providing support and assistance to the mother as she too adjusts to life with a new baby,” said Roberta Reed, RNC, Lactation Consultant with the Women & Family Education Department.
The event will include refreshments and door prizes. Pre-registration is not required, and participants can park for free at the Tower Garage, located at the corner of Harry Hines Boulevard and Medical District Drive, and ride the free shuttle bus No. 703 to the hospital. For more information call 214.590.6229 or see Parkland's Community Calendar.