New research from Aviva reveals 25% of families with children under 18 share childcare equally between both parents. This is up from 18% in 2010 and also reveals that stay-at-home dads had risen ten-fold in the last 10 years.
The survey also showed that more than a quarter of dads (26%) either gave up work or reduced their working hours after the birth of their children, and 44% regularly look after their children while their partner works.
And while many dads seem to relish the time they spend with their children – 43% feel lucky to have this opportunity – financial factors also play their part. When determining who would look after the children, 46% of families said their decision was so the main income earner could keep working.
This is borne out by the growing trend of breadwinner mums. A quarter of women surveyed (25%) said they earn more than their partner, while a further 16% said they earn roughly the same as their partner. Alongside this, over the past four decades, the number of women in employment has increased from 56 per cent in 1971 to 70 per cent in 2008, while for men, employment fell from 92 per cent to 78 per cent over the same period.
While most role reversal couples seem happy with their alternative arrangements, a small number of hands-on dads admit to a few minor niggles:
– Nearly one in five (17%) admit it makes them feel ‘less of a man’ to be the childcare provider.
– 13% report they find looking after the children harder than going out to work
– 13% say they wish they earn more than their partner so they could go out to work
– A small number (5%) report that their parenting / working arrangements have caused arguments with their partners.
Louise Colley, head of protection marketing for Aviva says:
“It’s really interesting to see how the responsibilities of parents are shifting. There’s no longer a ‘norm’ for who does what in a family relationship, and it’s great that many mums and dads are enjoying non-traditional roles. We know from our latest Family Finances report that the cost of childcare means many families feel it’s not worthwhile both parents working – so it’s no surprise to see more men taking up the reins.
“However, this also means that many families are relying on one salary which can leave them financially vulnerable. We’d encourage every family to consider the ‘what ifs’ to make sure they’re financially protected, just in case the unexpected should happen.”
Source : Aviva
