Blogger Rachel Smith, known for her no-nonsense approach, recently took to Facebook to air a grievance that resonates with many parents: the glaring double standard in how society views mothers and fathers.
To put it simply, moms often face endless scrutiny, while dads receive heaps of praise just for being present. Rachel’s experience illustrates this perfectly. She was at a park with her son, and when the restaurant lacked a changing table, she changed his diaper on the grass. Shortly after, a nosy onlooker approached her to scold her for it.
Just a week later, her husband, Tom, did the exact same thing—changing their child’s diaper on the lawn—and was met with applause from a group of women who walked by.
“I didn’t think much of it because this is my norm,” Rachel shares. “I’m used to being judged for things my husband gets celebrated for. When I pick the kids up from school and am late, I get the side-eye while Tom gets a hero’s welcome for just showing up.”
Rachel points out that society holds women to impossible standards of perfection while offering men much lower expectations.
We often hear about participation trophies in reference to kids, but have we considered that dads receive them far too often? It can feel frustrating that any public dad move gets endlessly applauded, while moms barely receive a nod for their hard work. It begs the question: if parenting is so tough for fathers that they deserve a parade for every minor action, why don’t moms get some recognition too?
Rachel isn’t suggesting we stop praising dads; she appreciates when Tom is recognized for his efforts. “He’s a great dad—let’s celebrate him!” she says. “But let’s also cheer for the moms out there. When you see a woman multitasking—like talking on the phone while pushing a stroller—think about how she chose to be an engaged parent instead of sitting at home binge-watching shows.”
Yes, please! More accolades and less judgment for everyone. What’s good for dads should apply to moms too.
For more insights on parenting and family life, check out our other blog posts, including this one on home insemination kits. If you’re looking for expert resources, visit Make a Mom for reliable information on home insemination. Additionally, Women’s Health offers excellent resources on pregnancy and fertility.
In summary, the double standard that exists between mothers and fathers in parenting is not just frustrating; it’s unfair. Let’s call for more acknowledgment of moms and dads alike, recognizing that both contribute uniquely to the family dynamic.