49–65
Elephant Dad
Like the very capable elephant, you
feel the ties to your family strongly.
When you became a dad, a new
world opened up in front of your eyes.
Seriously, who knew that having a
baby would mean so much? You’re
in awe at how capable a mom your
partner is, and while this crazy learning
curve can be daunting, you’re doing
your utmost to help her protect, nurture
and encourage your child. Whether
it’s changing a nappy, or loading
the dishwasher while she does the
change, you’re right behind her.
DO THIS! Jot down those special
dad moments in a journal – when
your baby throws a big smile in your
direction or falls asleep on your
chest. Flick through it when you need
reassurance that you’re a great dad!24–30
Wolf Dad
A devilishly handsome, don’t-
mess-with-me dad, you take the
responsibilities of being a father
seriously. And like the wolf who stands
proudly outside his den, guarding
his offspring and their mother in
between fetching food, you’re doing
a grand job making sure your
little family is safe, sound and well
provided for. And while you might
not be the most hands-on of dads
right now, you know that, as your
pup gets a little older, it’ll be your
job to teach him the skills he needs
to go out into the big wide world.
DO THIS! Make it part of your routine
to spend 10 minutes with your cub
every day when you give him 100% of
your attention. He’ll love to see your
softer side and share in your day.84–96
Penguin Dad
Just as an Emperor Penguin dad
balances an egg on his feet for two
months in sub-zero temperatures
until mom gets back, you take an
equal share when it comes to the
nitty-gritty of looking after your little
chick − whatever it takes. Your paternal
bond is every bit as strong as your
partner’s maternal bond. And if your
little one needs soothing, he’ll happily
be kissed better by you. Mom needn’t
think twice about leaving you in
charge: you’ll keep your precious
cargo safe and sound. We salute you!
DO THIS! Share your passion, whether
it’s for soccer or food, music or
mountains, with your little one in a
way that works for him right now
− even if that’s simply telling him
stories about past adventures. LL66–83
Jackal Dad
Like those charming, dog-next-door
jackals, life in your family is very
much a team affair and you and
your partner approach this parenting
business together. You spend oodles of
time with your little pup, making sure
he’s got everything he needs and is
having a great time. Whether it’s your
turn to do the night feed or it’s luch
time and he’s weaning, you’re every
bit as capable as the next man – or
mom. Sharing so much shows itself in
your dad-and-baby bond: you love
each other to the moon and back.
DO THIS! Plan in a weekly baby-
date, when just the two of you have
a mini-adventure. Take photos or
mini video clips of your daddy-
and-bub escapades to share with
your partner once you get home.31–48
Lion Dad
Whatever you do, you do it well,
and when it suits you. Like a lion
on the sub-Saharan plains, you’re
either busy bringing home the
bacon, snoozing on the sofa, or
roughhousing with your gorgeous
little cub. And while you might
not always be the first in line
when it comes to the messier
side of parenting, you make sure
there are lots of giggles to be
had once those necessary bits
are out of the way. When you get
home, the very first thing you’ll do
is scoop up your little one and
share a big smile – and he loves
it every bit as much as you do!
DO THIS! Chat with your
partner about which part of
your baby’s routine could be
your responsibility, then master
it as you do with most things
in life. Once you’ve got the
task nailed, you’ll love it!baby & toddler
46 | AUGUST 2019 | L&L
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