Keyword # 1: Parenting Together

Parenting is a heavy yet rewarding responsibility. A child’s development depends on how parents work together. Studies show that a child benefits in various ways when both parents actively take on the responsibilities of upbringing the child. Developments like social adaptation skills and school achievement are much more positive. Moreover, parenting together contributes to a healthier relationship between the mother and the father.

Sharing is Caring…

It is important to share responsibilities as parents. Do not stress yourself by shouldering responsibilities alone. Take time to sit down with your partner and discuss each other’s responsibilities. Below are some pointers on how to manage your responsibilities as parents:

• Start early. Start preparing before your baby’s birth by discussing with your spouse your expectations of each other. This will reduce conflict and frustration between the two of you when your baby arrives, as you would both have had time to iron out your differences. Additionally, attend prenatal preparation classes with your partner. Such classes are designed to expose couples to aspects of childcare and parenting.
• Take turns. If your baby often wakes up in the wee hours, take turns to help feed the baby. This helps your wife a lot as she needs the sleep, especially for the first few weeks after childbirth. Taking turns also include household chores planning activities and many other things that involves the family.
• Trust your partner. Give your partner the space to expand his own parenting style as it is normal to have different parenting approaches. For instance, if your partner encourages curiosity, ensure that you set the boundaries so that your child will not go overboard. If there is the urge to correct each other, try to limit the “No, you should…”. Explain in a gentle manner instead.
• Open your mind. When both of you disagree on an issue, take time to see it from the other’s point of view. Most of our parenting skills usually come from our experience of growing up. Ways that was not tried on us does not always mean it will not work. Considering your partner’s perspective can be beneficial to you both.
• Compliment each other. Everyone loves the feeling of appreciated; therefore thank your partner often. You are not only being supportive, you are also doing your relationship a favour. A simple “thank you” can affirm any relationship. No time? Write a simple note and leave it at places where your partner can see. A simple gesture of a smile, coffee on the table or even a good massage works wonders.

It will be easier for both of you to parent your baby together, rather than to put the entire burden on one parent alone. Remember, the keys to effective co-parenting are communication, cooperation and compromise. Being a parent is never easy, but working as a team can be rewarding for the future.