HOUSEHUSBANDS (Kids Gain from Loving Care)

The writer believes that a beautiful camaraderie
makes life a wonderful journey. 

            In our country, women are associated with homemaking while men are expected to eke out a living for the family. If this were the 1950s, no one would question this perception, but with the advent of technology and the education-for-all policy, open-minded men and women may beg to differ.

            The rise of househusbands has raised questions and invite speculations. For married couples who decide on switching "traditional" roles, they may need to face prejudiced people, who think that the decision is ridiculous and awkward. Not only will the husband be perceived negatively, the wife, too, may be viewed as being a "queen-control". Such pessimists should start looking at the bright side of the new lifestyle and realise that men will not be any less masculine if they become househusbands. Times have changed and so should our way of thinking.

            And, just as we have realised that everyone deserves an education to ensure a better future, we need to accept changes in the roles of men and women as this will lead to a better future, especially for the children. As long as spouses can reach a mutual agreement regarding the matter, problems will not arise.

Men who are willing to be househusbands believe that children need special attention from parents, and to put them under the care of babysitters may be not as effective. In the process of caretaking and parenting, these "domestic engineers" will develop a sense of responsibility, sensitivity, affection and protection. This is why a stay-at-home dad is, arguably, a better family man.

In reality, househusbands still have a chance to generate income by working from home. They can start a career based on their interests, talents and skills. They may be interested in blogging, graphic designing, writing or painting. This will not only make househusbands productive, but it also sees them contributing to the family income. Most importantly, it will give a positive impression of househusbands.

            It is important to note that stay-at-home dads can give their children something that many fathers cannot afford: time. Many children feel unappreciated because their parents spend more time at work than at home.

With everyone talking about thinking outside the box and making a difference, men should dare to be different. Malaysia is proud to have Dato’ Redzuawan Ismail, or fondly known as Chef Wan, to challenge the idea that kitchens are spaces for ladies only. He has proven that with determination and confidence, it is not impossible for men to have excellent culinary skills.

            To be a househusband is a daring decision. But this decision will strengthen the father-child relationship, and nothing can beat that fatherly feeling. It will make Father’s Day a more meaningful celebration. 

Courtesy of New Sunday Times

11 January 2015