Week 21: Dad's Guide
Second Trimester • Baby is the size of a a 10" tablet
Week 21 of 4053% there
👶 Baby Update
Size: A 10" tablet
Baby's movements are getting stronger and more coordinated. Eyebrows and eyelids are fully formed. Baby is swallowing amniotic fluid, which helps develop the digestive system.
💕 What She's Going Through
Braxton Hicks contractions may start — irregular, painless tightening. Stretch marks might appear. Heartburn becoming more common. She may feel the baby respond to sounds.
💪 What You Should Do This Week
- ✓Start setting up the nursery — paint now while there's time and energy
- ✓Register for a car seat installation check (fire stations do free checks)
- ✓If she hasn't already, encourage her to sign up for a breastfeeding class
🚫 Don't Say This
“Stretch marks? Already?”
Stretch marks are genetic — no cream prevents them. They're tiger stripes, not flaws.
🧠 Dad Hack
Paint the nursery NOW. You need several weeks for fumes to dissipate. Use low-VOC or zero-VOC paint.