Just as it is difficult to have the same number and quality of single friends after you get into a relationship so does the number and quality of change after a third is added to your marriage. It is common for many to start associating more with those who would enjoy going to Chuckie Cheese and to the park to play on the swings. The change in the focus of the parents from each other to the child is inevitable. Try having a 2 year old sit at a restaurant for hours and not run around. Next time the restaurant will be McDonalds where there is a play ground so you can at least sit and eat a meal in and not have to finish in 5 minutes.
Affection is a vital element that changes after a child.
This is one of the most difficult times for a couple. Stressors and issues that were moderately contained when there was just 2 of you now surface due to the stress of caretaking. The father can often feel consumed at this time which places a desire for him to flee to work or play. However, affection has to directed at the children. Although it does not have to be to the exclusion of the spouse.