There’s a moment in my parenting journey that is forever etched in my memory. It was the day my 3-year-old daughter dashed through the house in a frenzy (dressed in her favorite unicorn pajamas) and exclaimed, “Mom! Come quickly! There’s been an accident, and there’s poop everywhere on Dad!”
Oh no, I thought. No pun intended.
I briefly considered bolting outside, playing dumb, or pretending it was all a joke. After all, no one swooped in to save me when I found myself in my own messy situations. But then I remembered my little one was up there with a frantic dad, and I decided to embrace my nurturing side. Fine. I’ll rescue him. Again.
Walking into the chaos was a sight to behold—one of the funniest moments I’ve ever experienced. I couldn’t pinpoint what had gone wrong, but it was clear things had taken a turn for the worse. My husband looked overwhelmed and in dire need of help, so I stepped in to take charge.
It seems like dads often find themselves in these comical predicaments. The mom strolls in, exuding expertise, while dad looks like a well-meaning rookie. This observation often feels like a reflection of societal norms that place moms as the primary caregivers while dads are seen as the backup. Today, I want to acknowledge my husband’s strengths, and I’m ready to admit that there are things he excels at more than I do. Anyone who knows me understands how rare this is. So, without further ado, here are ten ways he shines:
1. Imaginative Play
He’s a master at engaging the kids with action figures, creating elaborate stories and scenarios. I, on the other hand, struggle with the basics. My kids often look at me with a mix of confusion and pity when I try to join in. My husband, however, makes it fun and exciting, effortlessly bringing characters like Batman to life.
2. Focused Playtime
While playing with the kids, he seems blissfully unaware of the endless chores waiting to be done. At first, this frustrates me, but it’s also a blessing. I can be easily distracted by the laundry or the dishes, but he provides our kids with the undivided attention they crave.
3. Weekend Traditions
He turns our kids’ weekend mornings into a special event, whipping up big breakfasts and letting them help, even if it often ends in a messy kitchen. I tend to rush through mornings, but he savors these moments, and our kids appreciate it.
4. Keeping Promises
When he commits to something with our kids, he delivers—no matter how inconvenient it may be. In a world where people often flake, he’s a constant. If he promises a day of fishing or ice cream, you can count on it happening.
5. Sound Effects Wizard
He can create amazing sound effects that captivate our kids. Whether it’s mimicking a T. Rex or making engine noises, he has a knack for it. I’ve tried, but the results have been less than impressive.
6. Physical Play
Wrestling, tickling, and tossing the kids around are his specialties. He can turn playtime into an exhilarating adventure. I attempted it once, and let’s just say it didn’t go as planned.
7. Patience of a Saint
Patience isn’t my strongest suit, but he seems to have it in abundance. Where I might rush to correct behavior, he seeks to understand it first, finding the nuances in situations that I often miss.
8. Sense of Humor
He has an incredible ability to make everyone laugh. Thanks to him, our oldest was introduced to America’s Funniest Videos, resulting in endless giggles. Hearing our home filled with laughter is a joy.
9. Packing Pro
Whenever we go on trips, he packs our car like a magician. It’s astonishing how he can fit everything we need into the vehicle, making it look effortless.
10. Embracing Adventure
He has a boldness that allows our kids to learn through experience, even when it makes me nervous. Whether it’s skiing or biking, he encourages them to take risks, while I prefer to avoid the bumpy beginnings.
Before kids, my husband enjoyed a life filled with flying planes, golfing, and attending sports events. Yet, he rarely complains about the shift to parenthood. His biggest concern seems to be how quickly our kids are growing up, and he often reflects on the fleeting nature of their childhood. Witnessing his transformation from man to father has been a remarkable experience, and I feel fortunate to share this chaotic, love-filled life with him.
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Summary: This article highlights the unique strengths of a father in parenting, showcasing how he excels in various areas compared to his partner. From imaginative play and focused attention to keeping promises and creating laughter, the husband’s qualities are celebrated. Through personal anecdotes, the piece emphasizes the joy and chaos of family life.