If you’re somewhat new to parenting, you’re probably still feeling a little bit like a deer in headlights—and that’s perfectly okay. There are so many new things you’re being forced to learn right now, and you shouldn’t be too harsh on yourself if you don’t have it all figured out just yet. However, there are some tips you can pick up, and 50-50 parenting is one of them. So what exactly is 50-50 parenting?
Sharing the Load
50-50 parenting isn’t so different from how it sounds. The idea is that you and your spouse should essentially take turns “tag-teaming” one another while giving the other rest in the meantime. This may seem like something obvious, but not everyone implements it in the right way. Many parents, especially first-timers, feel like they need to be helping their spouse with the child at all times. While this is very valiant, it also means that both spouses are losing energy and not replenishing any of it.
Finding Your Spots
It is true that there are parenting moments where both parents must be involved. However, if there are tasks that can be handled by just one parent, the other should take that time for themselves to either get some work done or simply take a well-needed break. It’s all about knowing which moments are best for such occasions, and the better you get at it, the more effective you’ll be at 50-50 parenting. If done right, both spouses are able to parent their child, while also enjoying a much-needed occasional break from time to time.