I was on top of the world when the digital test said “pregnant” for my first child. I remember immediately feeling different and happy. That was our first attempt and we were lucky.
Over the next nine months, it was a lot of doctor visits, baby gifts and staring down at my growing belly. Yet, now looking back, it was all about me and the baby — not really about my husband.
I thought it was my body going through all the changes and emotions as we were busy preparing for our next stage. I didn’t really think about how my husband might have been feeling — until this month, when our story “Dad Connections” (see pg.10 in this issue) mentioned postpartum depression for dads, which is experienced by about 10% of dads around the birth of a new child, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Digging a little deeper, a 2025 American Journal of Preventive Medicine study found that five-year-olds exposed to paternal depression are more likely to have behavioral issues in grade school.
While there are limited studies, the researchers note there should be more father-focused interventions, and I agree.
As we celebrate dads this month, maybe families can think beyond the traditional conversations about fatherhood and find out what supports resonate with dads.
Also when thinking about the whole family, I can’t help but mention our Summer Fun Guide, which is inside this issue. After this chaotic Northeast Ohio winter, I want to get out in the fresh air as much as possible. Honestly, our two dogs need it, too. They were stuck indoors too much because the snow and ice made daily walks impossible. That’s why our pet-friendly travel story hopes to inspires everyone that Fido or Fluffy also can come along on the family getaway.
There is so much to do this season, and we covered as much as we could. Look to NortheastOhioParent.com and our social media platforms to get all the updated information.
Of course, as I hope you were, I was anxiously awaiting the announcement of the winners of 11th annual Northeast Ohio Parent Choice Awards. We are always so excited to see what readers choose each year.
For me, I feel there’s always new options to explore, especially as our family is hoping to celebrate a few milestones.
When my husband and I think about what life would be like without kids, we talk about how it might be boring or how maybe we wouldn’t have strived to be the people we are today. I know that I’m lucky to have his support in this shared family adventure — and especially this month, I will be more mindful to show him that he will always have mine.
