How to Be Prepared for the Baby’s Arrival as a Soon-to-Be Father

Listen to this article

Becoming a father is an exciting and life-changing moment. You might feel a mix of emotions—happiness, excitement, maybe even a little nervousness about the big changes ahead.

That’s completely normal! The thought of sleepless nights, diaper changes, and endless feeding schedules can sometimes feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it unprepared.

As the due date approaches, many dads wonder how they can help, support their partner, and ensure everything is ready when the baby comes home.

Feeling prepared for the baby’s arrival isn’t just about the practical things; it’s also about finding your own sense of confidence and calm as you step into fatherhood.

What is it like to be a father of a newborn?

Being a father of a newborn is an incredible mix of emotions—love, excitement, exhaustion… and sometimes a bit of confusion! There’s nothing quite like holding your baby for the first time; it’s a moment you’ll never forget.

But along with the joy, there are long nights, constant feedings, and moments when you feel like you’re learning everything from scratch. You’ll find yourself wondering if you’re doing things right or how you can help more.

When you’re prepared for the baby’s arrival, those early days might feel a little smoother, but it’s still a journey full of surprises, laughter, and lots of learning.

5 reasons why preparing for baby’s arrival is important

Preparing for a baby’s arrival isn’t just about setting up a nursery or buying diapers—it’s about laying the foundation for those first few months of fatherhood.

Being ready helps ease some of the overwhelming moments that are bound to come. By preparing for fatherhood and understanding newborn care for dads, you can approach this new chapter with confidence and calm.

1. Reduces stress and anxiety

Being prepared for the baby’s arrival helps reduce the overwhelming feeling of “What if I’m not ready?”

When you’ve thought through the essentials—like setting up a safe space for your baby or knowing the basics of newborn care for dads—it eases some of that stress.

You’ll feel more equipped to handle challenges, which gives you the chance to focus on bonding with your little one.

2. Helps you support your partner

A big part of preparing for fatherhood is knowing how to be there for your partner. Those first few weeks can be exhausting for both of you, but having a plan in place makes it easier to work together.

Whether it’s taking turns with nighttime feedings or handling household chores, being ready allows you to offer practical support when it’s needed most.

3. Builds your confidence as a dad

Preparing for the baby’s arrival gives you a sense of control and confidence, which can make all the difference when you’re holding your newborn for the first time.

Knowing the basics of newborn care for dads—like how to swaddle, change diapers, or soothe a crying baby—helps you feel capable rather than uncertain. Confidence grows with preparation, and that enables you to enjoy fatherhood more.

4. Eases the transition into a new routine

Life with a newborn means adapting to new routines, which can be tough at first! You can plan for the changes by preparing ahead of time, like adjusting your sleep schedule or reorganizing your daily activities.

When you’ve prepared for fatherhood in practical ways, it makes those inevitable disruptions feel less chaotic and more manageable for both you and your family.

5. Strengthens your bond with the baby

The more prepared you are for your baby’s arrival, the more time you’ll have to focus on building that emotional connection.

Newborn care for dads doesn’t just involve practical tasks; it’s also about those quiet moments spent holding your baby, talking to them, or simply watching them sleep.

Preparation allows you to be present in those special moments without the constant worry of “What do I need to do next?”

9 ways to be prepared for the baby’s arrival with your partner

Preparing for the baby’s arrival is something you and your partner can share together, making those early days feel smoother and less overwhelming.

As a soon-to-be dad, there are plenty of ways you can get involved and feel ready for the challenges ahead.

From practical tasks to emotional support, these steps will help both of you transition into parenthood with more confidence and ease.

1. Set up the nursery together

One of the most exciting parts of preparing for the baby’s arrival is creating a cozy space for your little one. Make sure you and your partner plan this together—it helps you both feel more involved.

From choosing the crib to organizing baby clothes, this shared experience is part of the expectant father guide and allows you to bond over the anticipation of your baby’s arrival. It’s also a great time to discuss safety and comfort.

How to get started:

• Research nursery designs and make a mood board together.
• Set a weekend aside to start assembling furniture and decorating the room.

2. Attend childbirth classes

Taking childbirth classes together is a key part of your father-to-be checklist. These classes give you practical knowledge about what to expect during labor and delivery so you’re not caught off guard.

It’s also a chance to ask questions and feel more informed, which can help ease any anxiety. Plus, learning alongside your partner strengthens your sense of teamwork as you prepare for the baby’s arrival.

How to get started:

• Find a local hospital or birthing center offering classes, or look into online courses.
• Mark the class dates on your calendar and commit to attending together.

3. Make a plan for support during labor

Discussing your partner’s preferences for labor—like who should be in the room and how you can best support her—is essential. Being physically present is not enough; it’s also about being emotionally prepared.

Having this conversation beforehand ensures you’re both on the same page, and it’s a key part of how to be a good dad from the start. Knowing what to expect allows you to be a source of calm and comfort.

How to get started:

• Have an open conversation about labor preferences and write them down.
• Pack a hospital bag together, including things you’ll need for labor support.

4. Practice newborn care skills

Learning the basics of newborn care is one of the most practical fatherhood tips you can follow. Practicing diaper changes, swaddling, and feeding techniques before the baby arrives will make you feel more confident.

Being prepared for the baby’s arrival means not feeling lost in those first days at home, and this hands-on practice helps. Plus, you’ll feel more capable of sharing responsibilities with your partner.

How to get started:

• Watch newborn care tutorials or ask a family member with experience to show you the ropes.
• Buy some practice diapers or blankets to get comfortable with diapering and swaddling.

5. Stock up on baby essentials

Creating a baby shopping list and gathering the essentials—diapers, wipes, clothes, bottles—is a practical part of the father-to-be checklist. Going through this process with your partner ensures nothing is missed, and it gives both of you peace of mind.

Being prepared for the baby’s arrival isn’t just about the emotional side; it’s also about ensuring you’re well-stocked with everything you’ll need in those first few weeks.

How to get started:

• Make a shopping list with your partner and divide the items to purchase.
• Start purchasing key items a little at a time to avoid last-minute stress.

6. Create a postpartum care plan

Supporting your partner during the postpartum phase is crucial. Talk openly about how she might need help once the baby arrives—whether it’s with household tasks, taking care of the baby, or just giving her time to rest.

This is an important piece of new dad advice, as it allows you to relieve some pressure from your partner and show that you’re ready to share the load. It’s about working as a team from day one.

How to get started:

• Have an open conversation about how you can support her during recovery.
• Look into hiring a postpartum doula or arranging family help if needed.

7. Prepare your own emotional readiness

Preparing for fatherhood isn’t just about practical tasks; it’s also about getting emotionally ready for the changes ahead. Talk with your partner about your feelings, any worries, or even the excitement you’re experiencing.

This emotional openness helps build a strong foundation for parenting together. As you both prepare for the baby’s arrival, keeping communication open allows you to tackle challenges as a team.

How to get started:

• Set aside some quiet time with your partner to discuss how you both feel.
• Consider journaling or talking to other dads about the emotional side of fatherhood.

8. Discuss your roles and expectations

Having a conversation about how you’ll share responsibilities is an essential part of being prepared for the baby’s arrival. It’s not just about diaper changes or feedings; it’s also about discussing who will handle household chores or nighttime wake-ups.

This expectant father guide helps you both avoid misunderstandings later on. Clear expectations allow you to step into fatherhood feeling more confident and aligned with your partner.

How to get started:

• Sit down with your partner to discuss household responsibilities and set a plan.
• Agree on a flexible routine for nighttime feedings and baby care.

Check out this TEDx Talk by Family Counselor Diana Eidelman, where she shares her insights on the challenging and often contradictory experiences that shape modern parenting:

9. Plan for time as a couple

Amidst the excitement of preparing for the baby’s arrival, don’t forget to plan time for just the two of you. It’s easy to get caught up in all the baby preparations, but nurturing your relationship before the baby comes is important.

Whether it’s a special date night or simply enjoying quiet moments together, this is part of how to be a good dad from the start—by also being a supportive partner.

How to get started:

• Set up a regular “date night” before the baby arrives to spend quality time together.
• Plan small moments each day to connect, whether it’s talking or sharing a quiet meal.

In a nutshell

Becoming a dad is an incredible journey filled with excitement and a few nerves — and that’s totally normal! As the big day approaches, it’s all about being there for your partner, staying informed, and creating a peaceful environment for your little one.

Don’t worry if you feel unprepared sometimes; every new parent does. Just take it one day at a time. Ask questions when you’re unsure, lean on family and friends, and trust yourself… you’ve got this!

Remember, your presence and love will mean the world to your baby. So, enjoy these moments, soak in the anticipation, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!