A new study shines a spotlight on the evolution of fatherhood, with 93% of parents saying that the role of ‘dad’ has changed beyond all recognition.The findings reveal a generational shift in the way fathers now parent.
Unveiling a dynamic shift from the roles and responsibilities previously associated with parents, as the vast majority of dads have the flexibility to muck in much more at home and enjoy being present for their kids. Half of dads surveyed recognise the pressure once placed on their own dads to be the main earner.
Two thirds of dads in the 21st century see their most important job is to be a good parent that their children will admire, whilst a mere 7% still perceived it to be the sole earner. The study of 2,000 British parents was conducted to celebrate Father’s Day by kids TV show Bluey which has been praised around the world for its funny and relatable depiction of modern parenting.
Over two thirds of British parents’ define todays ‘modern dad’ as a “provider of emotional support to their children [who] helps with the household chores.” Recognising that over three quarters of dads today (78%) cook for their family; 69% and 60% now participate in bedtime and bath time routines, respectively. 60% do the school run; 54% help with homework; and 47% take kids to after-school and weekend clubs.
80% dads now do domestic chores compared to 25% which did it a generation ago – so that’s 55% more dads now involved in domestic chores than previous generations. The same number are more involved in childcare vs. three in ten who say they experienced it from their dads.
Sarah Ockwell-Smith, a parenting expert who specialises in the psychology and science of parenting, said: “Bluey’s Father’s Day survey confirms that the priorities of modern fathers have shifted. Dads today are more involved in all elements of parenting and are more open, emotionally available, nurturing and playful than previous generations. Previous generations of fathers have traditionally been viewed as ‘the head of the household’, with an emphasis on bringing in most of the family income with little time for play, bedtime stories and opportunities to connect with children emotionally.”
As the dynamic of parenting and society has evolved, so has the role of dads. Referencing personal experience, three in ten parents admitted that their father provided for the family financially, but their mother did everything else. Seemingly leaving less time for dads to engage, as a further 29% said their own father was so busy earning a living that he only spent time with them at weekends.
Far fewer of their own fathers made meals for the family (28%); took part in bath time (17%) or bedtime (27%); did the school run or helped with homework (each 21%). With 84% admitting that their upbringing has affected their style of parenting and has led to them deciding to do many things differently to their own dads.
Sarah adds: “Changes in work and society allow parents to share responsibilities more equally and clearly dads are happier with their new role. Times have changed and fictional dads such as Bandit in Bluey are reflective of a new era in parenting. This survey shows that dads today are more mindful of their own upbringings. Simply put, they are now able to be more involved and present on a day to day basis to give their kids the best start and enjoy being the best dads they can be.”
When reflecting on their childhood, 56% wish their father had the time available to spend more quality time with them, and almost a third (28%) wish that they had enjoyed a closer emotional bond.
Modern fathers are taking their parental responsibilities seriously and striving to be the best dads they can be, many cited concerns about not being a good enough parent (44%) and missing their childhood because of work pressures (28%). Whilst a third worry they may not be able to support their kids emotionally (33%).
When asked what the best TV dads of all time were, mums have a soft spot for Bandit from Bluey. Parents also agree that Philip Banks from 'The Fresh Prince of Bel Air' is a good example of a father figure.
Sarah defines the reasons why: “Mum’s recognise Bandit is an involved dad, whether that's household chores or fully immersing himself in playing with the kids. Bandit is a reflection of modern parenting, showing that dads can be funny, caring and capable.
“Philip Banks was funny and witty yet authoritative. He was always there for his children when they needed him. He practiced authoritative parenting, not afraid to set boundaries and rules, but was also patient, kind and understanding.”
Alex Brooker, celebrity dad, co-host of Channel 4’s The Last Leg, recently appeared on a popular daytime TV show describing the show as “absolutely beautiful.” A self-confessed fan, Brooker enthused: “I think Bluey’s the greatest kids’ programme of all time. I love it so much, I’ve laughed at it… I have cried at two episodes of it, it’s just so good.” He added: “Bandit, the dad, I think he’s the greatest TV dad in history.”
Joe Brumm, creator of Bluey, said: “Bluey is based on my own experiences of parenting and inspired by families of friends and others who work on the show. I didn’t set out to create the Heelers as the perfect family, I just wanted to show what it’s really like when you’re raising kids and you get dragged into their crazy games and just go with it. We’re so pleased that it’s resonated with people all over the world and that Bandit’s seen as a fair reflection of modern dads. Happy Father’s Day UK Bandits!”
