It happens to every young dad. It happened to me twice today. You bring your child in to get their diaper changed expecting it to be just like every other time, and then the panic hits. This isn’t every other time.
To make matters worse you are likely out of wipes, diapers or…worst case scenario, your child starts trying to flip, kick or squat down after you already have begun to carefully peel that diaper off.
You want to call for back-up, but your spouse isn’t home. Your heart races, your stomach turns. You must think fast, but what do you do?
5 Dad Emergency steps when you are hitting the diaper panic button
1. Control your Breath| Its not as a bad as it seems. Everything is washable, including your hands.
2. Sing a song| What will get your child’s attention so they won’t move. Just make sure it isn’t a song with motions…
3. Use whatever you have around| You are the MacGyver of that space. You are the Chuck Norris of that moment. Seize it and own it. You can always wash that other outfit. Put it under your child to minimize other stuff getting on the changing table. Its easier to wash another outfit than the whole changing table.
4. Keep your eyes or hand on your child at all times| You will be tempted to run. Don’t. You’re the leaders, the hero, the rescuer in this moment. Your child is counting on you to show courage in the face of demise. Be careful when you are looking around the room for a towel or something else to grab. Don’t walk away thinking it will just be a minute and your child roll off the bed.
5. The best offense is a good defense| Check your rations daily to make sure you are stocked on diapers, wet wipes, towels…etc. Don’t bring a knife to a gun fight, and don’t come unprepared to the baby changing table.
6. Pull the emergency hatch| If all else fails put them in the bathtub to stabilize the situation. That’s kinda gross, but you can pour some comet on it later.
I know the thought went through your mind, but you’re better than that young dad. Don’t wrap that diaper back up and wait for their mommy to come home and act surprised. You can do this. You’re a man of valor.