Your Brilliant Baby in Week 12: Correlating Dads and Diapers

Really, there's nothing magical about diapering when it comes to solidifying the father-infant bond—the research doesn't suggest that men necessarily have a better technique or strategy that babies like better. What diapering does provide, however, is an interactive time for the child and diaperer to get well-acquainted. It's an intimate social time that familiarizes Baby with the person in charge of the task, thereby building her trust in that person.

And chances are, if Dad's changing lots of diapers, he's likely doing other things to care for his child as well, which leads to a stronger attachment. In about six months or so, Baby will identify a "primary attachment figure" and one or two secondary attachment people. For some children this person is definitely Mom; for others, it's either Mom or Dad.

So every solid effort Dad makes right now to care for Baby helps her feel safe with him. As she gets older, she will approach him for all sorts of needs, further developing their relationship. And not only that, but children are also more likely to reach their potential when they know Dad really cares.

Your Week 12 Toolbox

Related skills and topics this week include …

• What's happening in Baby's third month?
• Use our Development Tracker to check off your child's 0-3 month milestones.
• Here's what our pediatrician says you might be worried about this month.