When does the bonding actually start happening? | DadHQ

When does the bonding actually start happening?

1w ago1 min read

Our daughter is 3 weeks old and honestly I'm just trying to keep her alive. Everyone talks about this amazing bonding experience but right now I just feel anxious all the time. I love her obviously but I don't feel that overwhelming connection yet. My wife keeps saying I'll get there when she starts smiling and reacting to me. Anyone else feel like this at the beginning? When did it actually click for you guys?

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Comments(7)

DDerek T.Regular1w ago

You're not failing, you're exactly where you should be at 3 weeks. The real connection builds over time when you're changing diapers, feeding her, getting to know her cues. It's not a light switch moment.

CChris P.Regular1w ago

Honestly you're doing fine. That magical bonding stuff happens gradually, not all at once. Right now just keeping her alive and fed is the whole job and you're nailing it.

ZZack M.Regular1w ago

Dude, 3 weeks in you're in survival mode and that's completely normal. The bonding sneaks up on you when you're not even thinking about it. Just keep showing up for her like you are.

CChrisRegular1w ago

Three weeks in you're basically in survival mode and that's totally normal. The bonding happens but not all at once like people say. It's more like little moments that add up over time.

MMike R.Regular1w ago

Don't stress about it. I felt the same way at three weeks with my first. The bonding hits different when they start smiling back at you around week six or so. Until then just focus on the basics.

CChris M.Regular1w ago

Real talk: keeping her alive IS the bonding at this stage. You're learning her cues, her rhythms, what makes her calm. That's the foundation. The cooing and smiling stuff comes later and honestly it's better.

DDerek M.Regular1w ago

Man I remember this phase. Everyone kept telling me about magical moments and I'm just thinking how do I keep this tiny human alive. The bonding definitely comes but on its own timeline, not anyone else's.