10 Ways to Stay Close After Your Baby Arrives (3 of 6)

4. Respect Different Styles

You might discover you and your partner approach parenting differently—and that’s okay. Your unique perspectives can actually balance and complement one another. Instead of aiming for uniformity, focus on understanding. Talk through your approaches with curiosity, not judgment. When you trust each other’s intentions, disagreements become opportunities for growth rather than battles to win.

5. Listen With Intent, Not Just Attention

Real listening means being present—not planning your response or checking your phone while your partner speaks. Make space for your partner to share their thoughts, fears, and joys without interruption. Listening to truly understand builds emotional safety, and that safety deepens your connection more than any solution or advice ever could.