Being a parent is an amazing, albeit challenging, job. But according to Today’s Parent, dads have it a bit easier than moms do.
This isn’t to say that being a dad is a piece of cake, but fathers often aren’t expected to carry as much of the parenting load as moms are. Because of the additional expectations and stress that come along with being a mom, they tend to report lower levels of happiness and greater fatigue than dads.
Plus, dads are often expected to be the “fun parent”. They might not do as much disciplining, especially if they spend less time around their kids overall, but they’re always expected to have a funny joke lined up.
Fathers also aren’t judged as harshly for not being perfect, and they tend to be rewarded for doing things that are simply expected of moms. So if your dad always seemed more carefree than your mother, this is probably why!
Something that most dads are especially skilled at is telling a classic dad joke. How many times have you heard, “Hi, Hungry. I’m Dad!” Or the iconic, “Oh no! Our refrigerator’s running!”
But according to The Father Hood, these silly jokes can actually serve a deeper purpose than just making your child smile (or roll their eyes).
Luke Benedictus explains that these jokes can simultaneously “puncture the gravity of life.” They can remind us not to take life too seriously and create opportunities to relax and giggle.
Benedictus does point out, however, that fathers can’t rely on humor all the time. Despite the fact that dads on TV are often portrayed as bumbling buffoons who can’t do anything right or take anything seriously, in real life, they have to be there for their kids. And sometimes that means being a shoulder to cry on, providing advice, and helping them work through difficult situations. Constant jokes can also be embarrassing for kids, especially if the jokes are made at their expense. So dads have to learn how to read the room.
When used wisely, though, social psychologist Susan Newman, PhD, says humor can be an excellent parenting tool. She notes that having light-hearted hilarious moments with your children can help protect the parent-child bond that might become strained at times.
Nobody likes to be disciplined or told what to do, especially kids, so it can be helpful for parents to ensure that they’re not too serious all the time.
Moms and dads can also utilize humor when they want to diffuse tension. Even if you’re frustrated with your child, you have to remember that they’re, well, a kid! Making them laugh is much more effective than scaring them or making them feel bad about their choices. Plus, kids model what they see their parents do. So this is a great way to teach them to find some humor, or at least the bright side, in any situation.
Now, if you’re not a father yet but you plan to become one some day, All Pro Dad has some tips on how to be the best parent possible. First, they note that you have to love your spouse. By strengthening your marriage, you’ll not only make life easier for both your spouse and your kids, but you’ll also demonstrate how your children can be great partners in the future.
