In past generations, it was dad’s job to bring home the paycheck.  Raising the children was left to mom.  Today men are expected to play a bigger role in the lives of their children.  Here are 5 steps to start any dad down the road to good fatherhood:

1. Spend one-on-one time with each member of the family.

2. Be there when your family needs you.

3. Don’t let stress get in the way of family togetherness.

4. Support good communication among family members.

5. Take care of your health and have regular checkups – your family needs you.

Don’ t be afraid to look for help and advice when it comes to fatherhood.  Many problems are easier to solve when you get a fresh perspective from another parent.  Read more suggestions for being a good dad on MrDad.com.

For a comic take on fatherhood, check out this Shaytard Family video on YouTube:

Despite the fact that more moms than ever are working outside the home, the demand for their time by schools in need of volunteers has never been higher. PTA meetings, classroom help and fundraising all compete for the time of what is usually a core group of volunteers.

Many moms are experiencing volunteer burnout as they find that their families are suffering due to their volunteer commitment, and that they are calling on babysitters and ordering take-out food due to a lack of free time to spend at home. Psychologists and counselors are suggesting that moms limit their volunteer hours so that their home life doesn’t suffer.

Read more about the pros and cons of parent volunteering in this New York Times article.