We are equally parenting our child. Are you?

 A new born is one of life’s greatest joys. The emotions that come along with a new born are often felt more deeply than any other feelings we humans are capable of having. On the other hand, it is also true that there’s no way to mentally prepare for this adventure as parents, together. Especially for first time parents, the initial journey is a complete rollercoaster ride. The scenarios parents face is as unique as their child. The role of a mother and a father is always debatable in shaping their kid’s future. And that’s where the concept of Equal Parenting comes to play.

Widely known as equally shared parenting or Equal Parenting, this concept is now practiced by a growing number of couples in Indian households. To break the pre-conceived notions, equal parenting is not about sharing baby-care responsibilities only; it includes housework, breadwinning and some me-time as well. It stands in sharp contrast to the traditional marriage with kids, where the man goes to work and the woman stays home, or the ‘supermom’ marriage, in which the man works and the woman tries to balance a career with the lion’s share of the childcare and household tasks. Equally sharing the responsibilities of your babies with your partner is about balancing life, balancing the family’s collective life and sharing equally in the joys of raising a family.

How does equal parenting benefit a child?

As they say, a child’s learning starts at home hence, it becomes important that they learn that no work is gender-biased nor big or small. Having parenting responsibilities, chores, hobbies, and even breaks split between partners help them understand the true meaning of equality and that is what they would work towards in their future as it will be their “normal”.

When both parents are committed to working together on common family goals, it sets a great example of teamwork and support that goes a long way in the child’s life. They understand the true meaning of family harmony, security and break gender stereotypes.

It has been proven that kids who witness active and effective equal and shared parenting, show a high emotional quotient right while stepping into their adulthood. They’re trained to take on challenges effectively while mastering the do’s and don’ts of handling conflicts peacefully with good mental and emotional well-being.

So , now we should either term it to mothering or parenting. If we say parenting both parents have to participate equally. So that while planning for the child, mother should not have to plan for leaving the career too. She can also have her balanced career and a new life too. She can also work on her dreams , enjoying with this new member in the life.