Parenting is a partnership. When it comes to raising your child, it is important to share parenting duties in order to maintain sanity, harmony and overall happiness. 

To be honest, there is no “one rule which fits all”. You have to find creative ways which best work for both of you! This will be dependent on your commitments at work, your family dynamics as well as your lifestyle. You can either share the work based on a schedule or agree to work together as a team. 

Following are some ideas which may help:

• Paternity leave – During the early days of parenting, it is helpful to apply for paternity leave. Women often feel exhausted and overwhelmed after giving birth. Having a partner to take off some of the pressure is a god send. Simple tasks like changing the nappy or making meals can make all the difference! It is also the best opportunity to bond with your partner as well as your newborn!

• Make a schedule – A well thought out plan enables you to feel more organised and creates clarity. It defines “who is doing what”. This is most helpful if parents are returning to work or raising more than one child. A clear schedule enables you to plan your day, meals and factor in any additional support which either of you may need. 

• Share the roles – It is quite possible that one of you has a strength in a particular area. For example – In my house, my husband is great when it comes to managing the finances whereas I am good at preparing the meals. So you can use the strengths of each individual to best manage the work. 

• Talk talk – Communication is key! Always talk about what works and what doesn’t! Remember nothing is set in stone so you can adapt and be flexible around your needs as well as the needs of your child. 

• Find time – We often find that when we have children, we forget about our personal needs. It is therefore important to support each other by encouraging each individual’s passions, hobbies and time for self care. My husband loves watching football. I ensure that I have his back when he wants to enjoy a game. Similarly he covers my back when I want to meditate, workout or go for a massage. 

When you understand and accept that parenting is a partnership and that you are both working together as a team, the parenting experience becomes a lot more enjoyable. It is important to respect each other’s needs and support each other in the best way possible. In doing so, you will not only raise incredibly understanding and happy children but your relationship with your partner will also thrive! 

So why not give it a go, you have more to gain and nothing to lose!