Stay-at-Home Dad Survival Guide

Published on: Parents.com

The Stay-at Home Dad


Whether it's the fledgling economy or a simple sign of more modern times, a growing number of men are deciding to stay at home with the kids and let their wives deal with rush hour traffic and casual Fridays. Case in point: In 2005 the US Census Bureau reported there were 98,000 stay-at-home dads nationwide; today, that number is closer to 2 million -- and climbing. "A stay-at-home dad is still considered a rare specimen," says Barack Levin, a stay-at-home dad and author of The Diaper Chronicles. That can make the transition from full-time employee to full-time father a daunting one. Luckily, we have some survival tips to make those first few months easier.

Be proud of your decision

Although there are more SAHDs out there, that doesn't mean there won't be some people who don't understand the concept of you staying home while your wife goes to the office each day. "There are people out there that when they see a man staying home with his kids, they automatically think, 'he's an unemployed loser,' " says Levin. "You have to be comfortable with your decision and not let it get to you." So whether it was a financial move or a lifestyle change, hold your head up high and let everyone know you're happy being Mr. Mom.

Decide on your duties

Before you officially become "stay-at-home dad," you and your wife should sit down to discuss exactly what that title entails, says Armin Brott, a stay-at-home father and founder of MrDad.com. Sure, you'll be taking care of the kids, but does your job description also include cooking dinner every night, doing the laundry and running all the errands? "Create a list beforehand so they'll be no arguments later on," suggests Brott.

---

READ FULL ARTICLE