In many households, more and more responsibilities are being equitably shared between both parents. This, in a nutshell, is what we call “equal parenting”.
When parents share responsibilities, children get to spend more quality time with both parents. -- 123rf.com
This include being involved in their children’s socialisation, health, education, upbringing and day-to-day care. Equal parenting has been shown to reduce the chances of postpartum depression, commonly seen in new mothers who get overwhelmed and tired with new responsibilities that they were unfamiliar with.
In these modern times, there have also been shifts in the traditional family unit resulting in divorced parents, step-parents and parents who do not live at home. In all situations, communication is key. Parents should make it a habit to discuss everything openly and honestly with each other, especially if they need additional support to make things work.Ground rules for equal parenting• Make a chore chart. Negotiate and have clear expectations of each other and always deliver your side of the deal.