I refer to my husband as “Daddy,” but it’s not for the reasons you might assume. Yes, when the kids are around, it’s all about “Daddy, did you remember to grab the milk?” and “Daddy, what’s for dinner?” But once the little ones are tucked in for the night, he gets to hear his actual name during our private chats.
This habit of calling each other “Mommy” and “Daddy” started when we welcomed our first child. We wanted our children to call us those names, so we naturally adopted them ourselves. Now, our kids shout “Daddy” and “Mommy” at all hours, especially when we’re trying to catch a few Z’s or sneak in a bathroom break.
Even though our use of these titles has become second nature, I appreciate the “Daddy” part more than I expected. As mothers, our identities become tightly linked to parenthood. This connection is often less pronounced for fathers. From my interviews with company leaders, I’ve noticed that while women frequently highlight their roles as mothers—often without prompting—many men tend to mention their families only if asked directly.
This difference in approach might stem from the fact that working mothers often juggle their careers and parenting responsibilities, keeping their children at the forefront of their minds during discussions about their professional journeys. Conversely, many fathers seem to rely on their partners to manage parenting duties.
However, the landscape is shifting. With an increasing number of stay-at-home dads, advocates for paternity leave, and more fathers actively participating in their children’s lives, it’s clear that men are beginning to embrace their roles as parents. Today, fewer men define themselves solely by their jobs—be it as doctors, engineers, or drivers—and are more openly acknowledging their identities as fathers.
My husband is a wonderful example of this change. While our family dynamics may resemble a traditional 1950s setup—with me working shorter hours and him stepping into the role of the primary caregiver—he embraces fatherhood wholeheartedly. He reads bedtime stories, plays games, prepares weekend meals, bathes the kids, and supports their myriad activities.
When I call him “Daddy,” it serves as a reminder of how central fatherhood is to his identity. And honestly, that’s a beautiful thing.
Further Reading
As for more insights on family and parenting topics, you might find this article on intrauterine insemination helpful. If you’re exploring options for home insemination, check out this resource as well. And for even more information, visit this link.
In summary, calling my husband “Daddy” is more than a simple title; it encapsulates his role as a father, which is a significant part of who he is. As societal norms evolve, so do the ways we define ourselves and our family roles.