Paternity Leave Changed Me as a Dad | DadHQ

Paternity Leave Changed Me as a Dad

Aug 81 min read

Just finished my 3 months of paternity leave and heading back to work next week. First time I've been home long enough to actually bond with my newborn, help with school runs for the older kids, be present. Realized how much I've been missing. Now facing the reality of going back full time. My company is actually cool about flexible schedule but I'm worried about the guilt. Anyone else struggle with this transition back?

8 comments114 views

Comments(8)

TTravisRegularAug 10

Three months is huge. I only got two weeks and felt like I was just getting the rhythm down when I had to go back. How are you feeling about heading back? The hardest part for me was that first day knowing I'd miss stuff.

MMasonNew DadAug 10

That paternity leave time is gold. I only got two weeks and I still think about how different things would've been with more time. You're lucky and honestly it shows in how you're thinking about this transition.

VVincentRegularAug 10

The weird part is going back but knowing what you're missing during the day. Lean into those mornings before work and evenings even if you're tired. It keeps the connection strong.

RRandy B.RegularAug 8

Three months is a game changer. I remember those first weeks back feeling weird, like you're missing something, but you've already built that foundation with your baby. That doesn't go away.

TTrevorRegularAug 8

Man, that bonding time is everything. I had the same realization with my first kid, and even now with three I try to protect those moments. Going back to work is tough but you've got this.

JJasonRegularAug 9

Man, that's amazing. Sounds like you really got to be present with your kid instead of just hearing about their day second hand. Those first three months matter so much.

RRick M.RegularAug 10

Did you feel like you bonded differently knowing you had an end date? I always wonder if paternity leave changes how you approach parenting when you know you're about to shift back into work mode.

JJoshuaExperiencedAug 9

Three months home with them changes your entire perspective. Going back to the office is going to feel weird but you've got something now that you didn't have before. You actually know your kids now.