Ep.10 Formula Feeding for Dads: Stepping Up When Breastfeeding Isn't the Plan

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How can dads turn formula feeding into a magical bonding experience with their baby? This episode of Instructions Not Included is all about empowering fathers to embrace bottle-feeding as a meaningful and enriching activity. We unpack everything from the nuts and bolts of warming milk to the emotional nuances of noticing when your baby has had enough or needs to burp. Our goal is to equip you with practical tips, like holding the bottle at a 45-degree angle and recognizing your baby's feeding cues, to make feeding time smoother and more enjoyable.

But it's not just about technique—it's about connection. We discuss the importance of sharing feeding responsibilities, especially during those bleary-eyed early morning sessions, and how to show appreciation for your partner's efforts, whether she's breastfeeding or formula feeding. Wondering how to create a supportive environment if breastfeeding isn't going as planned? We've got you covered. Listen in for some thought-provoking questions designed to help you reflect on your role and deepen your bond with both your baby and your partner. Don't miss out on these invaluable insights; like, subscribe, and share your thoughts with us!

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Episode Transcript

Claude (00:00):
Welcome back to Instructions Not Included.
This is episode 10, FormulaFeeding for Dads.
Stepping up when breastfeedingjust isn't the plan.
Let's get it.

(01:02):
Welcome back dads.
Today, on Instructions NotIncluded, we're tackling a topic
that's often overlooked formulafeeding.
This is for those dads whosepartners aren't breastfeeding or
have chosen to supplement thisepisode.
Here is your guide to becominga bottle feeding pro.
Let's get started.
Here's some essential tips fordads who are bottle feeding.
Let's start with the basicswarming the milk.
You want to heat the formula toa lukewarm temperature and

(01:24):
avoid microwaving.
If all possible, you can useeither a bottle warmer or a bowl
of warm water.
After warming the bottle, youdo want to just squirt a little
bit on your skin just to makesure it's not too hot for the
baby.
Cradle your baby in your armswith their head slightly tilted
back, and hold the bottle at a45 degree angle.
This is to prevent air bubbles.

(01:45):
Offer frequent breaks to allowyour baby to swallow and to
prevent overfeeding.
Watch for the cues, like yourbaby turning away from the
bottle or pushing it out withtheir tongue.
This could mean that the baby'seither finished feeding or just
needs to burp.
You do want to burp your babyfrequently during and after

(02:08):
feeding.
This is to prevent gas anddiscomfort.
Creating that special bondingexperience is important Even
though men can't breastfeed, wecan still create a special
bonding experience duringfeeding time, like just talking
to your baby, singing them asong, letting them grab and hold
onto your finger while they eat, or just simply gazing into

(02:31):
their eyes.
But as a dad, it is extremelyimportant to create that bonding
experience.
Remember, dad, formula feedingis a choice and it's just as
valid as breastfeeding.
If your partner isn't able tobreastfeed or chooses to
supplement, be supportive andunderstanding.
Here's how you can help.
It's always good to share theload.
Offer to handle some of thenight feedings or early morning

(02:55):
feedings, just to give yourpartner some rest.
Let your partner know howgrateful you are for her efforts
, whether she's breastfeeding orformula feeding.
Just letting her know that youdo care and you understand goes
a long way.
Quick quote a father's love isthe most precious gift a child
can receive.
Dads, formula feeding can be abeautiful bonding experience.

(03:19):
Embrace this opportunity toconnect with your baby and
provide the nourishment theyneed.
And, of course, before I getout of here, as always,
questions for the dad.
Question number one, that is tobe if your partner chooses to
formula feed, how do you plan toinvolve yourself in the feeding
process.

(03:39):
Question number two what aresome of your biggest concerns or
questions about formula feeding?
And question number three howcan you create a supportive
environment for your partner ifshe struggles with breastfeeding
?
Remember, dads, formula feedingis a perfectly valid choice.

(04:00):
Embrace this opportunity tobond with your baby and provide
the nourishment they need.
Don't forget to like andsubscribe to Instructions Not
Included for more dad-centricadvice, and share your formula
feeding experience and questionsin the comments below.
See you next time.