Just yesterday afternoon, I found myself alone with my two kids, and for a few hours, I got a glimpse into the world of single parenting. Let’s just say, it wasn’t a walk in the park.
The moment my partner came home, I put down the baby and reached for the bourbon. I won’t sugarcoat it: I was drinking to escape the chaos, the constant movement, and the noise. A few hours of solo parenting was more than enough to remind me of the value of teamwork in a marriage.
While thankfully I’m not a single dad, my partner has taken on a lot of the work since we welcomed our newborn. I know that there are times she might feel like a single parent, and I do my utmost to share responsibilities because I refuse to be a lazy dad stuck in outdated roles.
So, to the fathers out there who aren’t pulling their weight, this is for you!
I get it, #NotAllDads! And thankfully, more dads are taking an active role in parenting than ever before. However, there are still some who could use a good nudge to catch up with modern expectations. (Trust me, I hear from their partners on social media!)
It’s 2016, and we’re all about equality and shared responsibilities. Dads who engage in parenting aren’t superheroes—so let’s stop putting them on pedestals—but those who sit back and let their partners do all the work? They’re the real villains.
I have a 3-month-old baby, a 5-year-old son, and a wife who I’ll keep anonymous for her sake. Our family operates as a team. My partner and I support each other, while the little ones mostly just exist—especially the baby, who’s not contributing much yet. A big part of our support means allowing each other to take those much-needed naps.
Let’s face it: babies eat frequently, including during the night, which can be exhausting for breastfeeding moms. If you’ve ever witnessed a mother with her child, you know feeding is just a part of the whole experience. Babies crave their moms, and while that bond is undeniable, moms also need a break. That’s where dads need to step in.
Being the main source of nourishment, comfort, and companionship for a baby is a demanding job. Moms deserve some downtime, and even though I can’t breastfeed, I can bottle-feed when needed. If my partner is worn out, I encourage her to get some rest. “Sleep through it! I can handle the midnight feeding!” I say, all the while catching up on our favorite shows.
When her friends invite her out, I always say, “Go have fun! I’ll take care of the kids!” (With a little help from Benadryl, of course.) And if she’s craving a Saturday afternoon nap, I insist, “Go for it! I’ve got it covered!” (We have Netflix to keep the kids entertained.)
Sure, my kids might prefer their mom, and that’s perfectly okay. She is the favorite parent—often thanks to that biological connection only mothers have! But being her favorite spouse? That’s a role every dad can excel in. It’s not 1950 anymore, guys.
Let’s remember, women can find support in many places, and it’s time for dads to step up.
If you’re interested in learning more about home insemination, check out this helpful resource on pregnancy and parenting.
In summary, it’s time for dads to rise to the occasion and share the load. Parenting isn’t a solo act, and every dad should strive to be an active participant in their child’s life. Whether it’s handling late-night feedings or simply giving mom a well-deserved break, every little bit counts!