Dad Ready: The Free Online Antenatal Course Every Expectant Father Needs to Know About

The Antenatal Gap for Modern Fathers

For decades, traditional antenatal classes have focused almost exclusively on the birthing mother. While mothers rightfully require comprehensive medical care and attention, expectant fathers have often been left sitting awkwardly in the corner of the room, wondering:

"What is my actual role during labour? How can I be genuinely useful when my partner is in pain? And how do I prepare for the overwhelming reality of bringing a newborn home?"

At Dads Matter, our work regularly sees us supporting fathers at crisis points—whether navigating high-conflict family court proceedings, establishing child arrangements, or coping with the mental health fallout of family breakdown. A recurring theme we hear from men is that their sense of paternal exclusion began right at the start: during pregnancy and birth.

That is why we are delighted to spotlight Dad Ready—an outstanding, 100% free online antenatal course created by Gareth Wall at Be A Super Dad, designed specifically to empower and prepare first-time fathers and co-parents.

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What Is Dad Ready?

Dad Ready is a self-paced, online antenatal programme developed in the UK. Unlike generic parenting guides, it speaks to fathers in plain, practical, and honest language without unnecessary jargon.

The course is structured across three core pillars:

Why We Recommend It for Dads

1. Completely Free & Open-Access

Private antenatal classes (such as NCT) can cost between £200 and £400, creating an unnecessary financial barrier for many growing families. Dad Ready is 100% free online, ensuring every expectant dad has access to high-quality preparation regardless of income.

2. Flexible Formats to Suit Your Schedule

The programme offers two distinct learning tracks:

• The Full Course (3 hrs 8 mins): 12 structured modules and 36 bite-sized lessons that can be completed over four 45-minute sittings.
• The 60-Minute Essentials: A high-impact fast-track covering the essential safety protocols, birth partner scripts, and newborn care basics when your due date is close.

3. Evidence-Based & NHS-Aligned

The content is aligned with current UK health guidelines (including NICE clinical standards, safer sleep guidance from The Lullaby Trust, and the NHS infant feeding framework), giving fathers confidence that they are learning safe, verified practices.

4. Collaborative "Partner View"

The platform allows dads to work through reflective exercises privately on their own devices, while easily sharing key birth preferences, emergency contacts, and practical task plans directly with their partner.

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Building Strong Foundations from Day One

At Dads Matter, we firmly believe that involved, confident fathers lead to healthier children, stronger family units, and more resilient relationships. Starting fatherhood informed, proactive, and emotionally grounded is one of the greatest gifts a man can give to his new family.

If you or someone you know is expecting a baby, we strongly recommend taking an evening to explore Dad Ready.