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The family hierarchy in Canada is reforming from days gone by. Fathers are increasingly taking equal if not more time off for paternity leave compared to mothers as the “progressive” father becomes the new normal in Canada. These softer, caring men describe good fatherhood as “the new masculinity.”
The reform of the traditional family is startling. In 1976, only one percent of all fathers remained at home with the kids while the mothers focused on careers. However, as of 2011, at least 12 percent of fathers in two parent families were the stay-at-home parents. The growth is also reflected in the number of men taking paternity leave. In 2011, 13 percent of fathers took time off from work to raise their kids, an increase of 9 percent from 2004. Perhaps most surprising is the number of single men raising their children alone increased to 21 percent – a dramatic difference from the 1970s.
In 2000, the parental leave laws in Canada were amended to reflect the growing acceptance of males as the primary caregiver. Mothers were previously allowed up to 15 weeks leave, but the new law adds another 35 weeks which parents can legally divide however they may choose. This amendment provides the parents the opportunity to collectively raise their children, while also giving them equal time to independently focus on their careers.
As part of the modern family hierarchy, progressive fathers are forming their own community through blogging and even special summits, which are meant to change the stereotype of the traditional paternal persona. Chris Read is a progressive father who is proud to participate in play dates with his kids, and to be the primary caregiver at home. He says friends often give him a hard time and even random strangers give him quizzical looks when he takes the kids to parks or shopping, but it doesn’t bother him. Read says being a good dad is worth any kind of criticism.
“It’s not hard to be involved with your kids – that’s why you have kids.”