With the changing times a father’s parenting responsibilities are also fast changing. Encompassing the first and foremost of earning a living for the family to fulfilling the role of ‘Resident Supreme Authority Figure’, the father’s role now runs down a huge list.

Today’s fathers are expected to, and want to, be not only breadwinners but also fully participating parents. Dads now do their share of preparing feeds, changing diapers, taking the kids to the doctor, and simply being around in a way many fathers of yesteryears weren’t.

Do’s and don’ts for new dads:

• Babies are fragile, but not breakable. Don't be afraid to hold yours!

• Take out time to spend with your family.

• Learn some essential basic baby tasks, like changing a diaper, getting the child to burp.

• Negotiate night shifts with your partner or parents. Don’t leave your partner to do all the work at night.

• Don’t expect your sex life to quickly return to normal after the birth.

• Talk to your partner to resolve any issues.

• New moms often have emotional ups and downs that are not predictable. Be supportive and offer an ear when possible.

• Don’t expect your partner’s figure to return overnight. It would take at least another nine months to regain the pre-pregnancy figure.

• New dads also experience the blues or postpartum depression. Don’t put yourself under too much pressure trying to be a super dad. Find a balance between work, family, and your own individual needs.

• Build a bond with your kid, take a bath together, read to him, play with him, and sing lullabies.