We're all aware of the ubiquitous mommy blogger, but dads who blog are still somewhat of a rarity. It’s fun for us moms to get their candid perspective on birth, afterbirth, and their transition to a world largely comprised of errant bodily fluids. But fathers who blog have more at stake than merely the amusement of matriarchs—they do so out of a real hunger for community, understanding, and self-deprecation. Mindful Mama talked to Joe Schatz—Joeprah— and co-founder of dad-blogs.com about the trials and tribulations of the stay-at-home dad.
Why did you start the site?
We saw it as an opportunity to create a community that we would like to be a part of ourselves.
Why do dads need other dads?
It’s really important—stay-at-home dads are such a minority where I live here in Maryland. My peer group is all moms. I am around women almost all the time. At first nobody wanted to talk to me and the interactions were awkward. I felt like I was screwed. Then, through taking my daughters to community activities, I found some cool moms to talk to. We formed a playgroup and I finally started having meaningful discussions with other parents. I had found my peeps. I realized that quality adult interaction was what I craved the most. Still, online I connect more with dads and dad bloggers--they are easier to relate to than most of the moms I have found online.
What type of dads are members of Dad Blogs?
For the most part, accountable, responsible adults looking for an outlet. Guys who think about their role as fathers and the gravity of that role. Dads who wrestle with the impact of every decision, from cloth or disposable diapers to the right age to wean.
What differences do you notice in parenting styles?
Even though it sounds cliché, I find dads to be more laid back, more prone to use humor, and more willing to play the fool. I think humor as a parenting tool/strategy is passed down dad to dad; I know my dad got his humor from my grandfather. Kids get so upset, so focused on the small stuff—they need humor to appreciate that life can’t be taken too seriously.