My kids are lucky to have an incredible father. He’s truly a standout, a genuine champion of fatherhood. Seriously, this guy has a whole parenting philosophy and can mend a broken heart with playful tickling. He was destined for this role. But there’s one thing about this “awesome dad” phenomenon that annoys me—he gets showered with accolades for doing what should be expected of any parent. You’d think he invented the sun, moon, and stars based on the praise he receives for just showing up. Meanwhile, the everyday efforts of moms go unnoticed, even though they should be celebrated with gold medals and parades.
Take a look at these examples:
- Grocery Store Outings
When mom takes the kids grocery shopping, it’s chaos, and onlookers glare as if questioning her parenting skills. But when dad ventures out with the little ones, he’s met with compliments and offers of help—even when the kids are well-behaved. I once saw a woman pat my husband’s shoulder and say, “You’re so brave!” while our kids were perfectly calm. Seriously, what gives? - Cooking Dinner
If I tell someone my husband whipped up dinner, the reactions are wild. Friends rave, “What a catch!” and my mother beams with pride. But when I cook, it’s just another day at the office; no one thinks twice about it. However, when dad makes a meal that isn’t cereal, he’s treated like a culinary hero. - Diaper Duty
Changing diapers is a relentless job—millions of changes and countless messy situations, all expected of moms. But when dad steps in, even if he fumbles, he’s hailed as a champion. My husband tackled half the diaper changes, using old-fashioned cloth diapers that had other parents swooning. Meanwhile, I’m the one getting side-eye for doing the same work. - Bedtime Routine
Typically, it’s mom who handles bedtime. But if dad steps in, he’s suddenly a miracle worker. Reading a story while casually scrolling through his phone gets him high-fives, while I’m just doing what moms do. - Dressing the Kids
It’s almost a joke—if the kids look mismatched, it’s dad’s fault. If he manages to coordinate their outfits, it’s like winning a fashion award. Heaven forbid the kids look anything less than adorable; they just have to be somewhat coordinated to earn applause. - Engaging in Play
I spend hours playing tea party and combing Barbie’s hair, but when my husband braids our daughter’s hair, it goes viral. His ability to play along for a short time elevates him to hero status, while I’m left cleaning up the play food. - Conversing Like a Normal Human
Dad talks to the kids like they’re individuals, and strangers compliment him for it. If I engage them in conversation, it’s brushed off as trivial chatter. It’s frustrating to see him praised for simply being a parent. - Pop Culture Knowledge
Moms are expected to know all the characters and songs from kids’ shows. If dad can name even one character, he’s a rock star. Meanwhile, I’m the one stuck with the PJ Masks theme song playing on repeat in my head. - Attending Educational Activities
Dads shine at library story time or art classes, earning admiring glances for simply being present. I do these things regularly, but it’s just expected of me. When I’m there, no one notices. - Being Present at the Playground
If I take a break on my phone at the playground, I’m judged. But if dad takes a moment to relax, he’s lauded for being involved. If he even pushes them on the swings, it’s like he’s won a medal. Meanwhile, I’m just expected to keep active. - Babywearing
I carried the kids around constantly and received little recognition, but when my husband wears our baby, he’s treated like a superhero. Compliments pour in, and people ooh and aah over him, while I’m just doing my job. - Volunteering at School
No one praises me for organizing class events, but when dad volunteers for Little League, he’s the hero of the day. He becomes the community’s shining star while I’m stuck with the forgotten bake sale.
In essence, when dads engage in any form of childcare or housework, they’re celebrated as “taking time to be a dad.” Meanwhile, I put in countless hours as a mom without a second glance or acknowledgment. We’re expected to be nurturing, creative, and entertaining, yet the credit often goes to dad.
Hey, dads, we love you and appreciate all you do! But sometimes, just sometimes? It would be nice if we got a little recognition too.
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Summary:
This article humorously explores the disparities in recognition between dads and moms in parenting. Moms often perform the same tasks as dads but receive little acknowledgment for their efforts, while dads are celebrated for seemingly basic involvement. The piece highlights the everyday challenges faced by mothers and emphasizes the need for equal appreciation in parenting roles.