Encourage them to switch off fully. Many new fathers feel pressure to check in — a message from the team saying “we’ve got this” helps.
How to write it
- Encourage them to take the full leave and switch off.
- Keep humour gentle — sleep jokes are fine, gender stereotypes aren’t.
- Celebrate both parents, not just the baby.
Warm wishes
Congratulations! Take every day of your leave — we’ve got everything covered here.
So happy for you and your family. Enjoy these first weeks, they go fast.
Wishing you, your partner, and the little one a wonderful start together.
Congratulations, new dad! The team is cheering for you.
Enjoy every moment. Work will still be here when you get back.
Funny paternity leave messages
Enjoy your paternity leave — your new manager doesn’t believe in sleep.
Congratulations! Get ready for the hardest stakeholder you’ll ever have.
Your dad jokes now have a legitimate audience.
Enjoy the leave! Nappy changes are like code reviews — messier than expected.
Congratulations! Coffee is about to become your best friend.
From a manager
Please take the full leave and don’t check in. That’s not a suggestion.
Congratulations! We’re proud to support you taking this time.
Your projects are covered — focus on your family.
Wishing you a wonderful leave. We’ll see you when you’re back.
Short messages
Congrats, Dad!
Enjoy every minute!
Welcome to fatherhood!
So happy for you all!
What to avoid
- Jokes implying the dad is less capable at parenting.
- Asking him to stay reachable.
Organising the whole card? Our maternity leave card guide covers timing and who to invite.