The word can also feel like health services are welcoming an observer or third party, rather than an equal member of the parenting team. Moving on from welcome There are two ways to change our messaging in relation to fathers and non-birthing parents:F Our internal language (within the workplace Our external language (to families/fathers, etc.) Internally, a shift from ‘welcome’ could move a health service to more of an active state, where they are ready and expecting fathers and non-birthing parents to participate. This would include building the knowledge and skills of practitioners to work with fathers and non-birthing parents, and for this to be seen as an important part of their job. External language and messaging might need to be a little different. The word ‘expected’ can come across as quite demanding and put parents off. Any expectations should be framed in relation to ‘if and when’ you can attend. Health services need to be flexible and to provide at least some after-hours or telehealth sessions to facilitate engagement.
Moving beyond ‘welcome’ to inclusive practice starts with inviting fathers and non-birthing parents to participate, and being ready for them when they do.
i
Key messages for fathers and non-birthing parents
Becoming a parent is a significant life transitioÝ The whole family will benefit if you are engaged and informed before conceiving, through pregnancy and when the baby arriveá By being involved you can help improve relationships within your family and contribute to healthier child developmenñ It’s okay to feel uncertain and to ask for helä You will be able to build a strong bond with your child/childreÝ
You’re an equally important parenñ
Each parent will have their strengths, but both are equally capable of providing the care, comfort and support that children nee Your health and wellbeing needs are important to the whole family
Services might choose phrases such asl
We consider the participation of fathers and non-birthing parents to be necessar} We strongly encourage fathers and non- birthing parents to atten The participation of fathers and non-birthing parents is really important And go on to explain why. A simple rationale is that the participation of the ‘parenting team’ will mean both parents receive the information and skills needed to provide the best possible care for their child. Equal knowledge and skills set parents up at equal partners at home.
11
P lus P aternal: Talking to D ads
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker