What dads can do to bond with their babies

Keep baby close. Wearing your baby in a sling-type carrier can often be a wonderful way to get close. Baby wearing can be especially helpful during the witching hour - the end of the day when kids of all ages are prone to fussiness and meltdowns. This is a time when a dad can really shine. He can wear his baby while Mom takes a nap or does something just for her.

Go on diaper duty. A baby will need thousands of diaper changes during the first few years, so make those hours count. Diaper changing is a good (okay, yucky, but good) way to bond, especially when you look directly into your baby's eyes and talk to her.

Take the night shift. When your baby wakes up at 3 a.m., Dad can give her a bottle (if you're breastfeeding, pump beforehand). Or, if your baby's still awake after nursing, ease her off your breast and into your husband's arms. Ask him to sing a soothing lullaby.

Horse around. Dads are more likely than moms to engage in physical play with their kids - and that's great (provided the baby is at least 6 months old). Going for a horsey ride on Dad's shoulders, for instance, can provide a fun perspective. Gently bouncing around up there is good exercise for her large muscles, too, and helps develop her sense of balance and coordination.