Reflections on Being a Dad: No, I Don’t Babysit My Kids Fatherhood Father's Day

Have you ever noticed that when it comes to parenting people talk about moms and dads in very different ways? I stayed at home with our oldest for a while, and some guy friends would look at me differently and some women would say, “Aww, that’s sweet.” It didn’t bother me, but I never saw anyone react to stay-at-home moms that way.

I’ve also been praised for being “such an involved dad” and “so good with my boys,” though no one would ever tell my wife she’s good with our kids. She’s just expected to be. When she travels for work, people are quick to ask if I need help, which is very nice, but she doesn’t get the same offers of help when I’m away.

Another example: I recently had to leave work early to pick up my son from school because he was sick. My co-worker asked me, “Can’t your wife pick him up?” It’s 2022. There are plenty of us dads who are partners in parenting, so I think it’s about time that we are treated as equals. And by the way, I don’t babysit my kids. I parent them.

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