NSPCC supports stay at home dads
More mums than ever are returning to work, leaving dad behind to look after the children.
According to Bounty, more than 200,000 men in the UK now stay at home, and this role reversal has been leaving them confused.
The NSPCC’s online magazine, YouFamily.org.uk. Has addressed some of these issues, and has published a series of tips for first time parents with dad in mind.
NSPCC parenting advisor Eileen Hayes said: “For those dads who choose to stay at home, the reversal of traditional roles can be a source of tension. In many new families mums will still play the main caring role and dads can end up feeling left out. So dads need to know they are valued and able to get involved wherever possible in looking after their new baby.
“When a new baby arrives in the family it is always an exciting time. As well as these great feelings, it can also be a time of anxiety and new stresses. Just like mums, some dads are immediately bowled over by the strong feelings for their baby. Others can feel a bit over-whelmed at the start, wondering if they are ever going to get the hang of it.”
Eileen Hayes’ top tips for new dads include:
Get involved in holding and interacting with your baby right from the birth
Help out with everyday chores like changing nappies and bath time
Make time to talk to your partner – even just ten minutes to chat about their day
Agree roles and give each other a break – its ok to admit you’re shattered
Never be ashamed of asking for help. No one gets it right first time!
Last year the NSPCC helpline received more than 4600 calls from parents seeking help and advice when they felt they were starting to struggle, and not wanting their problems to escalate.
Eileen Hayes continued: “A new baby means relationships may have to change and there is a shift in family dynamics, whether this is a first baby or a new sibling for existing children. It’s vital that all parents know its ok to feel unsure about how to cope with their baby, and where to get help when they need it, especially if they are coping with post natal depression.”
The NSPCC is now urging the Government to improve support and information given to first time parents, and the make this parenting advice a core element of ante-natal classes. They also want this followed up with effective postnatal support from health visitors as part of the Government’s Action on Health Visiting Programme.
To read the NSPCC’s latest parenting advice, and to enjoy a wealth of other articles about creating a happy and healthy family life, visit www.yourfamily.org.uk.
The NSPCC also produces a wide range of publications for parents, including Baby’s First Year. Find out more at www.nspcc.org.uk.
Parents needing further advice can also contact the independent charity Parentline Plus on 0808 800 2222. www.parentlineplus.org.uk