Your comprehensive, practical guide to modern dadhood

Whether you’re expecting or you’re already a proud parent, Being a Great Dad For Dummies is here to help you be the best dad you can be! Guiding your children as they grow and learn is one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever have. But being a great dad isn’t always easy. With hands-on, practical advice on everything from babyproofing to choosing a school, your friends at Dummies will show you the way.

Today’s dads are more involved in their kids’ lives than ever before. Late-night feedings, nappy changes, toilet training, school pick-ups — there’s almost nothing a modern dad can’t do (except give birth, that is!). If you’re looking for easy-to-follow tips on how to care for your child and create a loving, supportive environment, Being a Great Dad For Dummies has you covered from conception to preschool.

Author and parenting expert Dr. Justin Coulson walks you through:

• What happens at each stage of pregnancy and childbirth, and how you can support your partner during this time
• How to care for a newborn and find support for yourself as a new dad
• Navigating toddler talk, toilet training, tantrums, and more
• Activities to keep your child engaged and develop their confidence as they grow
• How to face unexpected challenges in parenting and life

Being a Great Dad For Dummies is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice that will help you become the Superdad your child deserves.

Dr Justin Coulson is co-host of Channel 9’s Parental Guidance where he provides expert parenting advice. He is the founder of happyfamilies.com.au and the Happy Families podcast. He earned his doctorate in psychology from the University of Wollongong.

Introduction 1

Part 1: From Here to Paternity: Conception to Birth 7

Chapter 1: Fatherhood 9

Chapter 2: Getting Pregnant 33

Chapter 3: Pregnancy: A Drama in Three Acts 49

Chapter 4: Preparing for a Baby in the House 67

Chapter 5: Birth 91

Part 2: The First Year 113

Chapter 6: Being Dad to a Newborn 115

Chapter 7: The First Three Months 139

Chapter 8: Months Three to Six 159

Chapter 9: Months Six to Twelve 181

Part 3: The Toddler Years 201

Chapter 10: Toddling Towards Two: Months 12–24 203

Chapter 11: Charging Towards Three: Months 24–36 227

Chapter 12: Making More Babies: Brothers and Sisters 243

Part 4: The Preschool Years 253

Chapter 13: Fun and Games 255

Chapter 14: Health and Nutrition 269

Chapter 15: Education 289

Part 5: What Happens When 303

Chapter 16: Stay-at-Home Dad 305

Chapter 17: Serious Illness and Losing Your Baby 315

Chapter 18: Disabilities, Disorders and Special Conditions 335

Chapter 19: Divorce and Separation 347

Part 6: The Part of Tens 369

Chapter 20: Ten Ways to Improve Your Partner’s Pregnancy 371

Chapter 21: Ten Ways Dads Build Baby’s — and Family’s — Wellbeing 377

Chapter 22: Ten Ways to Engage with a Toddler 383

Glossary 387

Index 399