The Role of Father in the Investment of Parenting

In some countries, paternity leave is practiced in addition to the traditional maternity leave. Countries like Australia and Singapore are some examples. In the case of Singapore, the countries' prime minister announced that the maternity leave is extended from 12 weeks to 16 weeks, but not for paternity leave which last for 3 calendar days. Fathers are now eligible to take leave to either take care of their newborns or their wives who had just delivered a child. The government foresee the need of and the importance of fathers' home stay to bear the responsibility and to share the joyful time with their love ones, as it is a great occasion in life when a newborn has come to the family.

Mother's role are more recognized and appreciated by the society. However, parental care and support can be more complete with both parents involved. It is important to have father as a role model for children as they grow up.

We often hear of how mothers change diapers, feed the kids and ensure that they arrive at school on time, while fathers usually bring home the bacon.

However, when it comes to spending quality time with children, fathers are hardly mentioned.

I have heard of how some people grow up disliking or fearing their fathers for a few reasons. Some gripe about how their fathers never seemed to have enough time for them. Some resent their fathers for being strict disciplinarians. A common complaint is how fathers never seem to express their love and affection for their children.

With the government's recent slew of parental benefits in place, more young married friends of mine are contemplating having children. I wonder if they realize that bringing up a child requires much planning and hard work. Taking care of the child is a joint parental effort.

Good parenting involves sound investments of time and money.

Bringing up a child is a costly affair, which starts from the day the little bundle of joy arrives. There is the child's food, clothing, health, education and many other matters to worry about.

In addition to all that, the child also requires attention and tender loving care from his/her parents.

This is especially crucial during the child's formative years. Whether it involves reading to the child, playing board games or even instilling moral values in him / her, parents should always make an effort to spend quality time with their child.

Therefore, parents should be financially and mentally prepared before bringing a child into the world.