What Do I Tell People About Why I Am A Stay At Home Dad?
by Jodie Lynn
"What do I tell people about why I am a stay at home dad without getting upset at all of their questions?"
You are very lucky to say the least to be in a position to stay at home with your children. You should remind these people who are asking questions that it is your decision and the best plan for your family.
Most of the time people are just curious and really don't mean to be nosy. But go ahead and tell them that it is your decision and it is a personal one made within your family. Let them know they should also consider the option for themselves should it ever be presented. There's no need to debate the topic. Just offer a smile and a hug to your children in front of this person.
Usually there are two types of questions. One is supportive and curious and the other is trying to assess whether or not you are as good of a role model as the mom would be. The first one can be answered by reflecting on the awesome experiences everyone in the family is benefiting from and offer input into whether or not they might try it for themselves. And, for number two, be polite and say your instincts are more family friendly than your spouse who is really good at what she does in the business world.
It is important for society to finally become educated in this area. With the recent layoffs, firings, company closings and/or delays in promotions, we will probably see more dads deciding to work at home or just take an early retirement so they can be there for the kids. It has been the experience of many dads that being home for children offers a positive and educational endeavor for the whole family. As many families know, the first three to five years of a child's life is crucial for all types of development, coordination, self-esteem and much more. But society is also seeing how important it is for someone to be home when older kids come home from school as well as for our teenagers. "It keeps us grounded and helps us keep them motivated for good grades, behavior and better moral standards to say nothing of their safety," says one father who wrote to me on the topic. Another dad says "there is so much they can get into, talked into or feel the need to perform that I am glad I can meet and greet them at the front door.
I say, "BRAVO!" to all dads who are taking an active role in helping to raise their own children.
Jodie Lynn is an internationally syndicated parenting/family columnist. Her latest book is
Mommy-CEO, revised edition, Martin-Ola Press
. (It's not just for moms!) Please see
ParentToParent.com
for more details. 2004 Jodie Lynn. Permission granted for use on DrLaura.com.
