A Few Things At-Home Dads Want Moms To Know

As an at-home dad, I often find myself significantly outnumbered – on the playground, in a parent & me class, or just strolling about town during the day.  In our multiple parent & me classes every week where it is usually my son & I with a dozen other moms or nannies + their kids, it is very noticeable.  I am an outgoing guy and usually make some mom friends wherever I go…most of the moms are friendly and approachable.  That said, there are several moms who make lunch plans or a playdate after class and leave me out.

I have my own list of bullet points I would want moms to know about an at-home dad.  Nothing major, just the usual stuff
– we go through a lot of the same highs and lows as parents
– as primary caregiver, I am knowledgeable about relevant topics such as children’s nap schedules, preschools, tantrums, babysitters, etc.
–  my way of parenting may be different than yours, but it does not mean that it’s not effective
– If you think you feel isolated, how do you think I feel sometimes
– Why do so many venues only use the language “mommy & me” even though I attend this class with my son every week?

The brief list above is inspired by a thoughtful and enjoyable post on Daddy Dialectic: What a Stay at Home Dad Wants Moms To Know, In Fourteen Points (posted by Chicago Pop). Chicago Pop’s #1 thing a mom should know: “I don’t want to sleep with you. So can we please just chill about that.”  Thanks to Angry Sahd for forcing my hand to read this.

Why stop at fourteen points?  I am sure other at-home dads can comment or weigh in on their personal #1 thing a mom should know about us….Or Moms, feel free to add your two cents on what we should know.