I do a bit more childcare than average

I have to be careful when I talk about parenting, coming from a man it sounds bad. Still, much of modern parenting trends (by which I mean, "how middle class parents raise their kids") seem to be about ruining mothers' lives as much as possible.

Patriarchy in action

My wife gets guilty. Worries if she's doing enough for them. Beats herself up about having birthday parties for them. Takes them places.

I don't feel guilty at all. Ever! Right from the birth of our first child my wife and I have split the childcare and housework equally. The expectations on fathers are so low I cleared them years ago. In the society's eyes I'm a hero.

Mr. Mom

I'm fine with sitting here writing this while they tear around me, playing. My self-serving theory is that children develop best through knocking about. No need to get them in the car and give them a learning experience. I might take them out later, but only if I get bored.

It can be a pain though, Dadding. Everyone in the NHS treats you somewhere between a family friend and a potential kidnapper. Taking my youngest for his vaccinations led to the question, "does his mother know he's here?" Needless to say, my wife does not get asked about me when it's her turn at the doctor's.

Having been through the last four years I hold the following to be equally true:

1. It has been a gift. Shocking that I could have sleepwalked into missing out on this time with my children.
2. It is a great burden, one which I now couldn't possibly expect my wife to bear alone. 

All in all, I recommend making the childcare as even as possible. Dads are generally lazier. I recommend more laziness in parenting.

Why your social media feed is clogged up with mums

It's not because they're obsessed with their children.

I need someone to acknowledge I exist. It sucks going to work but at least you can catch an eye over your desk and say, "hey, did you see that thing last night?" or "this project is really annoying me".   

This endless wiping, and tidying and washing and cooking and pleading and conversations about narwhals. I'm losing track of reality.  

Sure, sure, fun too, sometimes, just like those first few drips of water on your forehead can be refreshing.  

I'm here, I exist. Don't I? Please acknowledge that I exist and I am a person.  

I wish I had something more interesting to share with you, I really do, but I've got nothing. Just what's happening today.

I am so tired. 

Here is a picture of my stupid baby.