Sorry this reply is late, just found this sub.

The simplest answer I have is to just show up. Don’t wait to become “perfect” or “better” or whatever else you may be waiting for, just start being there. It’s been said that the biggest gift you can give your kids is your time, so be generous with that gift.

Another thing that I try to do is to just enjoy and appreciate my family. Remind your partner how good they are doing and try to avoid criticism whenever possible.

Time.

Stop hanging out with friends and spend that time with your kid.

Don’t be your kids best friend, be your kids parent.

• tell them you love them

• be physical with your kid: wrestle, tickle, chase them, play hide and seek (then tickle them). It sounds like that might be a bit early for you - stick to hugs until they’re big enough to hold their head up.

• shut up and listen. Whatever the duck they have to say, no matter how many times they say it, listen like it’s the first time and ask questions. Your kid will repeat themselves constantly. Enjoy it.

• When they’re old enough, give them freedom. Be the parent that trusts them and sticks up for them when others don’t.

• Never pretend making money makes up for time spent with family.
• Never hold your kid back from being themself. Their life is completely separate from your experience and everything you perceived life to be.
• Authority doesn’t work if you aren’t someone they respect. You won’t be respected if you can’t understand the above points.

Find out what each person wants that makes them feel most appreciated:

• praise them (for kids praise things they can control like effort rather than attributes like being smart)
• spend time where they are the focus of your attention
• give hugs, cuddles, high fives, tickles, etc.
• do things for them
• give them gifts