Dads in North Tyneside now have access to an exciting new online resource - the DadPad app. DadPad provides new dads (and dads-to-be!) with practical skills and information needed to manage and become confident in the transition to fatherhood.
The DadPad team has worked closely with North Tyneside’s 0-19 Children’s Public Health Team to create a bespoke app for the borough.
The app gives fathers access to knowledge and support on a range of key subjects, as well as providing signposting to both local and national services, groups, and organisations.
Some of the subjects covered include:
- basic baby care skills (such as holding, cleaning, nappy changing and sleep)
- coping with a crying baby
- supporting mam with breastfeeding
- home safety and first aid
- information on child development milestones (from birth to 18 months)
- forming a secure bond with baby
- advice on how to navigate the challenging days of new parenthood
Jo Connolly, Head of Service in the 0-19 Children's Public Health Team said: “We are committed to continually improving the support for families in North Tyneside so that every child gets the best start in life.
“Traditionally, lots of information, advice and support is female-focused, but dads can feel as equally unsure or overwhelmed so we are delighted to be launching this fantastic new resource. DadPad is specifically designed to reduce anxiety in a number of ways by helping dads to gain confidence.”
Julian Bose, Director of Inspire Cornwall CIC, the creators of DadPad, said: “DadPad was created because babies don’t come with a set of instructions, and dads told us that there was important information that they wanted to be given on what to expect and how to care for their baby. We listened to what dads, their partners and health professionals asked for and combined it all in the DadPad app, which has been written specifically for dads.”
In early 2023 DadPad will be issuing a hard copy resource for co-parents (LGBTQ+ non-birthing parents) which will be available to new and expectant families in North Tyneside too.
You can download DadPad here, or by searching ‘DadPad’ in your app store. Residents can access content for free by completing the short registration form.
For more information on DadPad, you can talk to your Health Visitor or visit the DadPad website here.