It’s Time to Share the Load: Why Dads Need to Step Up in the Parenting Journey

When I attended antenatal classes before the birth of my children, I quickly realised that while they were excellent for mothers, there was little focus on the dad's role. It wasn't just about feeling left out—it was about the lack of practical tools and guidance to prepare me for the equally important job of fatherhood.

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This gap in support wasn't just a personal frustration. It highlighted a deeper societal issue: parenthood has been seen as primarily a mother's responsibility for generations. This phenomenon, often referred to as the "Mother's Load," places undue pressure on mums and sidelines dads from fully stepping into their roles.

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This imbalance inspired me to create MANtenatal, a course designed to give dads the tools, confidence, and support they need to share the load and embrace fatherhood with purpose.

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Why Dads Need to Share the Load

We've all seen the cultural narrative play out time and again: the dad who clumsily changes a nappy fumbles through baby care or acts as an "assistant" to the mother. This trope might seem harmless, but it reinforces an outdated idea that dads are secondary players in the parenting team.

The truth is that dads have just as much potential to be active, nurturing, and knowledgeable parents as mums do. But without the right preparation and support, many men feel unsure of their role or how to contribute during pregnancy, birth, and the early days of parenthood.

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Parenting isn't about being perfect; it's about showing up—fully and equally. This is the philosophy at the heart of MANtenatal. Through our courses, we help dads develop the practical skills and emotional readiness to share the mental, physical, and emotional responsibilities of parenting.

When dads actively share the parenting journey, it's also beneficial for mums—it fosters stronger relationships, deeper bonds with their babies, and a more balanced and fulfilling family life.

The Challenges Fathers Face

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One of the biggest hurdles for fathers is the lack of resources tailored to their needs. Antenatal classes, books, and apps often focus on mothers, leaving dads with only a passing mention.

This lack of focus on fathers can lead to:

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●      Feeling Underprepared: Many dads enter parenthood without the practical skills or confidence to handle tasks like feeding, soothing, or even understanding the birthing process.

●     Emotional Distance: During the crucial early months, fathers can feel disconnected from both their partner and their child without being actively involved

●     Missed Opportunities: The prenatal and early parenting stages are critical for building a strong bond with the baby. Fathers who aren't encouraged to participate may miss out on these moments.

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At MANtenatal, we've worked hard to address these challenges. Our courses are designed specifically for dads, offering practical, hands-on learning that equips men with the confidence and skills they need.

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What MANtenatal Brings to the Table

When I created MANtenatal, I wanted to provide more than just information—I wanted to create a supportive space where dads could learn, share, and grow. The programme is built around a few key principles:

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●     Father-Centric Curriculum: MANtenatal covers everything from the birthing process to hands-on parenting techniques, answering dads' unique questions and concerns. Our goal is to help men feel prepared, not just for the birth, but for the ongoing journey of fatherhood.

●     Flexibility and accessibility: Whether through on-demand modules, live group sessions, or one-on-one coaching, dads can learn at their own pace and on their own terms.

●     CommunitySupport: Parenting is easier when you're not doing it alone. MANtenatal brings dads together in a global community, providing a network of support, advice, and shared experiences.

●     Tech-EnabledTools: Our free app is a lifeline for dads-to-be. It helps track contractions, monitor the baby's routine, and provides access to our Discord channel for real-time support and advice.

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A Call to Action for Dads

The good news is that things are starting to change. We're seeing a growing recognition of fathers' essential role in parenting. But societal norms won't shift on their own—it's up to us as dads to take the initiative, step up, and demand the support we need to be equal partners in this journey.

MANtenatal was created to meet this need, to help dads navigate the challenges of pregnancy and parenting with confidence. But whether you turn to a specific programme like ours or simply start by asking questions and seeking resources, the important thing is that you take that first step.

Parenting isn't just about "helping out" or being an extra set of hands. It's about being fully present—emotionally, physically, and mentally. By sharing the load, you'll lighten your partner's burden and create a stronger, healthier family dynamic.

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A New Chapter for Fatherhood

Parenthood is one of the most rewarding journeys you'll ever take but also one of the most challenging. That's why dads must be just as prepared and supported as mums.

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For me, MANtenatal is more than a programme—it's a movement to change the narrative around fatherhood. Together, we can empower dads to step up, share the load, and redefine what it means to be a modern parent.

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To all the dads-to-be out there: you've got this.  You're capable, you're needed, and you're ready. Let's rewrite the story of fatherhood together.

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