10 things every first-time Dad should know

Preparing for your biggest new role yet.

Becoming a dad for the first time is one of life’s biggest transitions. It’s joyful, overwhelming, magical - and, at times, a little messy.

Whether you’re counting down to your baby’s arrival or already knee-deep in muslins and night feeds, this is your gentle guide.

At Letterfest, we speak to new parents every day, helping them mark milestones through personalised gifts made with care. So, from one thoughtful community to another, here’s our heartfelt first-time dad advice to help you feel more grounded, more confident, and a little less alone.

1. You don’t need to have all the answers.

In the early days, it can feel like everyone else knows what they’re doing. But here’s the truth: they don’t.

What your baby (and partner) needs most is your presence. Your voice. Your cuddles. Your calm hands at 3am when nothing’s going to plan.

You don’t have to be perfect - you just have to be there.

2. All your emotions are valid.

Becoming a parent opens up a whole new world of emotions—some expected, some completely surprising.

Pride. Exhaustion. Fear. Joy. Total overwhelm. It’s all normal. Talking about how you’re feeling isn’t weakness - it’s wisdom.

One of the most important new dad tips? Be kind to yourself, too.

3. Support your partner, and look after yourself.

You’re both doing something incredible. Don’t forget to check in on each other - and on yourself.

Sleep when you can. Take a short walk. Eat something that didn’t come from a packet. You matter in this story, too.

4. Baby care? You’ll pick it up fast.

Changing nappies, soothing cries, surviving the witching hour - it all feels like chaos at first.

But soon you’ll be a pro at folding prams one-handed and reciting "The Gruffalo" from memory. Trust us. This is one of those new dad tips that becomes second nature quicker than you think.

5. Bonding takes time, and that’s okay.

Some dads feel that deep connection instantly. For others, it takes time. Both are totally normal.

Little routines - bathtime, storytime, the early morning cuddle - are how that bond builds, moment by moment.

6. There’s no ‘right’ way to be a dad.

You’ll read the advice, hear a thousand opinions - but your baby only needs you. Your way of doing things. Your silly songs. Your quiet confidence.

You don’t have to do it like anyone else. Your version of fatherhood is the one they’ll love most.

7. Your first Father's Day? Celebrate it.

This June might be your first Father's Day - and it matters. It’s a chance to reflect on everything you’ve already stepped into, even when it didn’t feel easy.

Whether it’s a lie-in and a bacon sandwich or a keepsake to treasure forever, take time to mark the moment.

Looking for the perfect gift for a new dad? Personalised storybooks, hand-drawn family portraits or engraved keepsakes are thoughtful ways to say: you’re doing great.

8. Capture the little things - they won’t stay little.

Those first smiles. The night feeds. The wonky first attempts at rolling over. It’ll all go faster than you expect.

Take the photo. Save the first pair of socks. Jot down a memory on your phone. You’ll be glad you did.

9. You’re not ‘helping’ - you’re parenting.

You’re not “babysitting” your child. You’re not “helping out.” You’re parenting.

Own that space. Show up. Lead bath time. Rock them to sleep. Read stories. You’re not an extra - you’re one of the main characters.

10. There’s no perfect dad - just a present one.

Some days will feel like wins. Others will feel like pure survival. That’s okay.

You don’t have to be flawless - you just have to keep showing up. Being a first-time dad is a wild ride, but you're doing brilliantly.

Want to mark his first Father’s Day?

Whether you're celebrating your partner or gifting yourself a pat on the back (go on, you’ve earned it), Letterfest makes it easy to find a meaningful gift for a new dad.

Our personalised books, custom portraits and hand-engraved keepsakes are made to order by real artists in the UK - capturing the early days in a way that lasts.

👉 Browse first Father’s Day gift ideas. One-of-a-kind. Heartfelt. Just like him.