Before the Baby is Born

Develop a support system of family and friends that will be able to help you through this time.

Make plans for child care.

Explore your options for medical insurance.

If you don't have a job, now is the time to start looking.

If you do have a job, hang on to it.

Take prenatal care classes.

If you smoke, now is a good time to think about quitting.

You may want to take a childbirth class with your partner during her pregnancy.

Help your partner by taking her to visit the delivery room before your child is born.

Start collecting things your baby needs (a crib, car seat, baby clothers etc.)

After the Baby is Born

Learn how to change diapers and prevent your baby from developing diaper rash.

Learn how and what to feed your baby.

Talk to your pediatrician and read about when to introduce your baby to solid foods.

Talk with your pediatrician about teething and treatment for pain; Buy extra bibs and teething toys.

Baby-proof the house.

Listen to CDs, watch videos, read books and attend parenting seminars and classes

If you are not married to your baby?s mother, establish paternity and work out a system to pay child support on time.

Having an older man to support you, give you advice, listen and help you find answers to your questions.

Download or Print this New Dad Checklist

Get a printable version of this checklist in your preferred format: PDF, Word, Excel, or print directly from your browser.

Who it's for

This New Dad Checklist is for anyone who wants a simple, practical way to get things done without missing steps.

Avoid forgetting - keep all your New Dad essentials in one place (external memory)
Save time - start from a proven New Dad structure instead of a blank page
Stay on track - track progress, come back later, and keep momentum
Coordinate with others - share the list and divide responsibilities
Learn the process - follow the steps in a sensible order, even if it's your first time

How to use this New Dad Checklist

Save New Dad Checklist to your free Checklist account so your progress is saved and synced across devices.
Customize it in the app: remove anything that does not apply, then add your own details for New Dad (dates, sizes, addresses, notes).
If others are involved, invite them to collaborate and divide responsibilities.
Work through the list: check items off as you go, and set reminders for time-sensitive steps.

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