Joys of gay fatherhood

Families with two fathers are an integral part of modern society, and contribute greatly to social richness and diversity.

While in the past gay parenting was seen as a disadvantage and people wondered if there were harmful consequences for children born into same-sex families, fortunately, in recent years, many studies have debunked this theory.

Today, many researchers look sympathetically at two-father parenting, and focus more on the well-being of the children. Many studies of child development have found that children who grow up in families that do not allow discrimination in regards to gender, sexual orientation or status succeed more than other children. Therefore, children of LGBT families may live better, precisely because of this empathetic approach, which is actually the key to all this positivity.

Have you decided to become parents? Congratulations! You are about to enter a new and fascinating world of parenting, which includes bottles and pacifiers, trips in the stroller, milk substitutes and lots of diapers and tiny clothes.

The parenting experience of gay fathers is full of love, laughter, crying and many sleepless nights, just like everyone else. So it’s true, it’s likely that your child will also sometimes hear the common phrase: “Wait for dad to come home, I’ll tell him everything you did!” But, there is something very special about parenting with two fathers and of course quite a few advantages that we have gathered here for you. So, take a deep breath, remember our tips, and enjoy this amazing journey!

Let’s start with some small tips:

Washing: invest in a quality washing machine because you are going to use it a lot.

Hair: If you have no idea in this area, you should learn to braid and stretch a ponytail.
Trust us, it’s a lifesaver.

Shopping: Make a detailed shopping list before you go to the supermarket. You don’t want to forget the diapers (again).

Be prepared for any question your child will ask you, however strange!

 And most importantly: enjoy the experience! Fatherhood is an amazing adventure especially with two fathers.

The advantages that children have with two fathers:😊

1. Diverse role models and gender equality

Children of two fathers are exposed to more diverse role models than other children,
receive an upbringing that encourages independent thinking and an understanding of a variety of family structures and relationships, which enriches their worldview.

In addition, they get to see positive examples of different masculinities, and can develop a broader and more open perception regarding their sexual identity. Naturally, children who grow up with gay parents understand easily same-sex relationships and diverse life choices from others.

They have parents who are a positive example of diversity, which allows children to be more open than children who grew up in traditional families. The children more often see an equal division of roles in household chores and child care, which contributes to an equal perception of gender roles.

2. A supportive and loving environment

Many studies indicate that children who grow up with two fathers enjoy the same level of love and support as children in heterosexual families.

Same-sex parents are very involved in the educational life of their children, and the psychological well-being of their children has been proven to be equal to the well-being of children of heterosexual parents.

In addition, same-sex couples who plan to have children do so after thought and conscious choice, which contributes to a supportive and stable family environment.

3. Mental health and success at school

In a study by the US National Center for Health Statistics, parents were asked to provide feedback on their children’s difficulties, filling out a “Strengths and Difficulties” questionnaire (SDQ), and providing answers about their behavior, mental, social and academic status.

The study showed that children of homosexual parents are as emotionally healthy as children of heterosexual parents. There are also studies that have found that children of same-sex parents may also outperform their peers and therefore, have a greater chance of success in later life.

4. High self-confidence

Studies show that children of gay (and lesbian) couples are generally more confident. Both parents playing an equally active role encouraging better self-esteem and teach their children to accept and love themselves. In addition, since same-sex couples sometimes encounter social challenges, parents make sure to develop stronger bonds within the family to overcome the difficulties.

5.  Accepting the difference

Children growing up in same-sex families are exposed from childhood to the values ​​of tolerance, openness and acceptance of difference. They are exposed to a variety of people and cultures, develop a more open and tolerant attitude towards the world and learn to respect others.

One of the biggest advantages is that gay parents tend to distrust stereotypes and instead focus on their children’s strengths, and therefore manage to raise great children without gender stereotypes and prejudices.

6. Mental fortitude

It’s no secret that children of same-sex parents may sometimes face social stigma because of their parents’ relationship, despite progress and liberalism. Navigating these issues helps fathers raise stronger children who develop mental resilience that helps them stand firm in the face of challenges and prejudices and also helps them deal with other difficulties later in life.

7. A father who is like a mother

Dad always knows where the baby’s socks are and manages to fold laundry perfectly. He is not afraid to change diapers or get up in the middle of the night. He usually knows how to make a high and stunning ponytail and is always ready to read a fascinating story before bed in a loud and dramatic voice.

Of course, not all families are the same, and every child experiences their childhood differently. What is most important is to focus on the child’s personal experience and make sure that they grow up in a healthy, supportive and loving environment, regardless of the composition of the family.