6 Tips For Being An Active And Collaborative Father In Child Care

YOGYAKARTA - In the past, father's role in parenting was often considered a 'assistance' or 'backup'. Fathers are positioned as family heads who are responsible outside the home and financial adequacy. In 2025, according to the Financial Times, Tuesday, June 17, a new trend emerged which was referred to as the allies dads. This marks a father who is not only physically present, but is also really emotionally, practically, and psychologically involved in parenting.

Being an active father does not mean replacing the role of mother and more than just a trend. This refers to the collaboration of mothers in caring for which it has a real impact. Such as reducing the gap in women's salaries, reducing maternal stress levels, and helping children grow healthier both mentally and cognitively. Here are some tips that can be practiced to be more involved and supportive as a father.

Pick up children from school, prepare morning supplies, or just accompany them to play in the afternoon. This small activity has a big impact. Children feel closer and safer, and couples also feel the burden is fair.

Active father is not only a matter of time, but also a matter of sound. Your parents discussed schools, eating patterns, and how to discipline children. Don't just leave everything to mothers. Based on a report reported by The Guardian, schools in Australia now involve father in a parent-child interaction therapy session to create a harmonious parenting pattern.

Research from the Equal Parenting Project shows that even though there are available leave or flexible options, often fathers are still passive. Working at home and picking up children is still the mother's job. So to become a passive and collaborative father, take the initiative to do daily roles without being told. For example bathing children, reading stories, or preparing breakfast.

Don't just focus on the role of 'father'. Remember, father is also a couple who has to share household chores, listen to complaints without judging, and support emotionally. This role is a form of real collaboration.

Parenting does not have a standard manual. Be a father who wants to learn, both from experience, books, and partners. Be flexible when facing children tantrums or making changes to plans that are part of the adaptive process.

The key to being present in full is to keep yourself mentally and physically healthy. Enough sleep, have time me, and keep open communication very important. It should be understood, being an active and collaborative father is not a goal, but a continuous process.

Every now and then, maybe make mistakes, but it's important for fathers to play an active role in parenting. As long as you study, want to be really present, and always grow together, this is the best form of collaboration in parenting with your partner.