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Why Daddy Dates Are Important
Thursday, September 15, 2011 by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
I admit it, I don't like to share. This includes chocolate, ice cream, coffee and - I even admit - my daughter. It's true. I am selfish. When my little one rocked my world, I wanted every moment I could with her. Perhaps it was because I am an "older" mama or because it had been 13 years of just the hubby and I. Whatever it is, it's hard for me to let go of my time with her. In reality, I know time moves too quickly and too soon she'll have flown the nest and will be out doing her own work in the world. Sigh.
As she has grown, I've grown too. I'm learning to share.
Lately, the hubby and I seem to be doing an above average job of tag-teaming the responsibilities of parenting. Someone tackles laundry, the other person books and bath. There's bills to pay and bike rides to be taken.
Although I hate when I have to miss out on the bike rides or bathtime, I've also found that it brings a little more sanity to our lives. I am not superwoman nor he superman.
How do you and your hubby (or partner) tackle the day to day responsibilities of parenthood?
Last Sunday afternoon, I was having a moment of crankiness. Besides crazy hormones, I blame this moment on the gigantic list of to-dos that was running through my head. Putting on his cape, the hubby swooped in and said he and the kiddo would head off for a bit. The little girl squealed at the words "Daddy Date" and off they went.
I got to work and smiled as I received text updates on their adventures. An hour and a half they were back and I had checked a few things off my list. With just that little time, I was able to now shift back my focus to our little girl. I was actually able to enjoy that time.
A few days later, I've realized that "Daddy Date" wasn't just good for me. It was also good for our household. Best of all, it was good for my little girl. Let's face it, husbands do things "differently." They are not perfect (like us!
). I also know that I tend to lead many of the parenting interactions with our child. Though the hubby is always a great reinforcement, giving him HIS time to shine, to do things HIS way is good for him and the munchkin.
It's a win, win, win.
What about your family? Does your child spend regular time with their dad or significant other in your life? How do you believe this affects their development? How do these times affect you?
Time to plan another date day. Next up, I'll work on sharing my chocolate and coffee. Maybe.
