Pandit Shri Jawaharlal Nehru quoted “Children are like buds in a garden and should be carefully and lovingly nurtured, as they are the future of the nation and the citizens of tomorrow.”

As per the thought, it is the duty of both of the parents to nurture the child; it takes two to create the future of a child. Just like it takes two hands clapping to make a noise, both the mother and the father play a vital role in the bringing up of a child. Parenting is a team effort. Bringing up a healthy, happy child is a tremendous responsibility. That’s why it’s so important for parents to have each other’s backs and work as a team. Every person has a purpose, thus what a mother can do, only a mother can do and similarly for the father.

The concept of parenting starts right from the pre-conception stage. When a couple is planning for a baby, the foremost thing that they need to do is, discuss on the many things that are essential for that sake. Say, defining each other’s roles and responsibilities, drawing boundaries in relation to certain habits, etc.

In India, it is a general tradition to believe that parenting is a mother’s responsibility. This stereotype seems so unrealistic. It is the duty of the co-parent to support the mother in all ways. For instance, if the father-to-be is in a business or profession that involves too much of traveling, then the couple should discuss and sort things even before they plan for a baby. If the mother wants her partner to be around while she is pregnant and even after the child is born, then she should be able to discuss and plan things before conception. Who wants an argument when there could be a pre-agreement! Follow the pre-requisites for a peaceful pregnancy. The father-to-be needs to play an equal role to maintain the relation with his partner and that would also help him to bond well with the baby.

When you and your partner work as a team to parent your child, you will both feel more supported. After all, you both have the common goal of raising your child to be healthy, happy and successful. Parenting teamwork involves problem-solving, managing conflict, talking, listening, backing each other up and accepting each other.

At the end of the day, it’s important, especially for younger children, to see that their parents are united and are working as a team. Stability and consistency make children feel safe and confident. Your child will benefit if she or he sees you as a team working together and you will create a more harmonious home!

Happy parenting!