dads and diapers

(Family Features) - 92 percent of dads consider themselves “skilled” at diaper changing, but more than half admit to avoiding the task or passing it off, usually to mom, especially if the diaper is “messy,” according to an August 2006 survey conducted by Pampers. You might hear dad say, “Uh-oh! Let’s go find Mommy.” Dirty diapers can be a surefire way to prompt some guys to call in reinforcements and run for the hills. Dads admit their roles in parenting may be changing, except when it comes to messy diapers. In fact, 10 percent of dads surveyed view diaper changes as a valuable time to bond with their babies, which many experts suggest is true.

For nervous new dads, changing their own newborn may be their first diapering experience. Even basic tasks like diaper changes can be overwhelming at first. For those dads, here are step-by-step diapering tips:

—Usually obvious signs or behavior will signal the need for a diaper change, but if uncertain, check first for odor or fullness. Always put on a fresh diaper before bedtime, nap, going out, and when baby wakes up.

—Ready your supplies before starting: new diaper, wipes, and fresh clothing, if needed. Have a towel handy just in case.

—Find a flat, sturdy surface and lay down a soft, clean changing pad.

—Keep one hand on baby at all times. Don’t rely on changing table belts to keep squirming babies safe from falls.

—Hang a mobile above the changing table at home (but out of baby’s reach) to help occupy baby during changes.

—Clean baby’s bottom well using gentle baby wipes to both clean and condition baby’s delicate skin. Wipe a baby girl from front to back.

—Gently lift by baby’s ankles when removing the dirty diaper and slide a clean diaper under her bottom.

—Fold down the front edge of the diaper on newborns so it doesn’t rub the umbilical cord area. Using a quality diaper can help make diaper changes easy -- some products have a mesh liner that helps capture wetness and runny mess to keep it away from baby’s delicate skin.

—Fasten the diaper snugly without pinching baby’s skin. The fasteners on quality diapers allow for readjustment if needed.

—Wash up. Baby wipes are great for cleaning changing area surfaces, changing pads, and hands if soap and water are not readily available.

Practice makes perfect. Diapering is an acquired skill, so more experience means less time spent on each change. In no time, new dads will be able to do it with their eyes closed -- although they probably shouldn’t.

More diapering and parenting tips and expert advice for all of baby’s stages can be found at www.pampers.com.