Bonding with your baby
Bonding is not always instant — and that does not make you a bad dad.
Tadpole Wellbeing TeamVerified expert
general information, not medical advice. if something's worrying you, speak to your GP or a qualified professional.
Lots of dads expect a lightning-bolt moment and worry when it doesn't come. For many, the bond builds slowly through skin-to-skin time, talking and singing, bath time and walks — the repetition is the point.
If weeks pass and you still feel distant or flat, that's worth a gentle chat with your GP or health visitor. It's common, it's not your fault, and it's very workable.
need to talk to someone?
tadpole. isn't a crisis service. If you're struggling, these UK lines can help. Free and confidential.
- Emergencycall 999If you or someone else is in immediate danger.
- Samaritanscall 116 123Free, 24/7, for anyone in distress.
- CALMcall 0800 58 58 58Campaign Against Living Miserably — for men. 5pm–midnight daily.
- Shouttext SHOUT to 85258Free, confidential, 24/7 text support — text SHOUT to 85258.
- NHS 111call 111Urgent (non-emergency) mental health help — call and select the mental health option.