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How Many Different Types Of Dads Are There?
It would be impossible to answer that question. There are thousands of different types of dads in the world.
Stay at home dads or dads you meet at daycare? Not so many.
Needing time off work for maternity leave or quitting your job altogether to be a stay at home parent is a decision every family with kids must make for themselves.
The stereotype of an apron-wearing, vacuuming while baking cookies wife and a working husband still stands as an ideal picture of a marriage. Yes, even in this day and age.
Times are changing and the number of stay-at-home fathers in the past decade has increased as more wives take on the role of the “breadwinner”.
Stay at home dads suffer judgement they can’t do all the things moms do.
Dads certainly do things differently from moms. Kids tend not to care either way. They adapt quicker than we do.
Having a toddler and finding the best place for daycare has opened my eyes to the interesting types of dad you see at daycare.
Whether they are dropping their kids off or are stay at home dads, here are 5 different types of dads I have come across so far.
1. The Helicopter Dad
Gotta love these types of dads. They really mean well. When you see this dad, he is hovering over his child. His child cannot move more than 2 meters away from him before he panics.
He is constantly checking to see if the diaper is dirty, calling and texting his wife multiple times to “check-in”.
Cleans his child’s hand because the child touched the hair of another kid who just arrived. Then makes sure his child’s head is free from lice – just in case.
He is scared to leave out of fear he has missed something. This dad has a type-A personality.
Takes his job seriously. Very seriously. Too seriously?
He doesn’t want any mistakes on his watch.
2. The Braggadocious Dad
He is a nice guy and we love these types of dads because they are so proud of their kids.
However, he becomes annoying because puts way too much emphasis on baby’s milestones.
Yes, we get it. We are parents too but do you need to announce at daycare that your child can poop at the same time every single day?
Or post to Facebook how your wonderful toddler is so well-mannered?
This type of dad brags way too much and needs to cool it.
Did I mention that his toddler can spell Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious backwards?
We all love showing off our kids and expressing our joy when they reach milestones.
Hey dad? Let’s stick to one milestone a day – if even that.
3. The All-Work-No-Play Dad
Oh! You won’t get a smile out of these types of dads. They are strictly business.
Arrive at daycare at 08:00. Take off their kid’s shoes and jackets.
Let their child know they will be picked up by mom or grandma at 14:00.
Says goodbye and is out the door at 08:01.
Loosen up Dad! Prioritize your time. The meeting you are running off to can wait.
Spare five minutes of your time. You baby won’t be young forever and neither will you.
4. The Accident-Prone Dad
For me, these types of dads are the funniest and most interesting.
They try the hardest but somehow cannot help but continuously get into accidents.
This dad arrives at daycare with both he and the baby are looking frazzled. They look like they left the house in a rush. Hair not brushed, baby’s pants are on backwards, dad’s pants zipper is undone and he forgot the diapers…..again.
I know a dad like this – so what you don’t know is that he woke up an hour earlier just to get himself and the baby ready.
He sets the baby down who goes off running; shrieking delightedly to play with other kids.
Dad watches happily until he notices that the baby doesn’t have any shoes on. And yup – it’s snowing outside.
Sometimes you’ve got to wonder who’s taking care of whom. Just let mom know the baby is safe and sound.
Don’t go into too much detail.
This dad still gets a serious A for effort.
5. The Gets-Along-With-Everyone Dad
Ah, and finally the down to earth dad who gets along with everyone.
He chats with the moms, the dads, the kids. He’s gentle, he’s kind and funny.
Hangs out a little to see what’s new and how everyone is doing.
These types of dads ask a lot of questions because they are genuinely interested and always offers a helping hand.
His kids never doubts how much this dad loves him or her because he not only says so but shows it too.
Plus he gives his child lots of kisses before he leaves.
If he wasn’t married, the single mommies would be lining up to date him.
No matter which types of dads you see at daycare, and there are many more types, one thing is certain – dads struggle with the same things as moms do.
Dads feel the same loss of identity, discontent, self-doubt and insecurity that moms feel.
Stay at home dads can cook, clean, go grocery shopping, do housework, mow the lawn, fix things, and take care of the baby without breaking them or burning the house down! (Don’t gasp in shock – it’s true!)
Being a stay-at-home dad is not for every family.
When a man decides to be one, he deserves the same credit and appreciation moms get.
Mom or dad – I say, if it’s your kid, it’s not babysitting. It’s parenting. Doesn’t matter who is staying home to do it.
So, what’s best for your family? Do you know any stay-at-home dads? What do you think of them?
Are you old-fashioned and think only moms should stay home?
Share your thoughts with me in the comments section below.
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81 comments
I really like the way you have your thoughts layed out, and it’s interesting to see all the different types of dads out there.
I think I know lots of braggadacious moms. Definitely most dads I know are the accident prone ones. Any parent who takes an active role in their childrens’ lives are awesome in my books
There are many personalities of Dad which I had overlooked. Reading your post made me aware and now I would look out for Helicopter or Accident prone Dads as they sound unique n funny too. In India these things are less common as we have extra help at home to raise the kids because of joint family system and dozen of servants at home.
We have good friends (and neighbors) who live a few houses down. She’s a pediatrician and he’s (the best) stay-at-home dad. I kid you not, he’s always taking the kids to do something, whether it’s an afternoon at the library or a simple trip to the grocery. To be honest, I’m never sure who has it rougher, the parent who works outside of the home or the one who works inside. I remember the days of having little ones and it was far more challenging that I ever imagined it would be. x
All dads look so cool. Good article on parenting and both partners should share responsibility.
i really like the way, you have put across your thoughts. I never had that close interaction with my dad because i was so scared to talk to him.
yess this so so funny and true!! I’m over here on the search for a future gets along with everyone dad!! 😉
I never knew there were labels for dads. My daughters father is a pain in the butt but her always does good.
I’ve seen some of these types of Dads, not at daycare but just around malls in General and It’s always interesting to see them, I don’t know of any SAHD’s but whomever is at home with the children all day is doing an incredible job and any old-fashioned ideals of the Perfect “Stepford” type wife shouldn’t exist in todays society. Every Parent is doing the best that they can for their Family.
Nice read. Had a few laughs too! I believe there’s nothing wrong with a stay home dad. You are on point with what you say about the different dads, especially the all work no play dads who needs to prioritize time. My dad was never a stay at home dad, except for a period when he lost his job but he was def mr nice guy dad who got along with everyone! Everyone loved him!
Wow, that was really great Sheri, I was wondering where did my husband fit into, some times he can be a helicopter dad and sometimes get along with everyone type dad. Enjoyed reading this so much.
Oh this is such a cute and witty post. It would be interesting to see how my husband behaves as a dad. He should read this article!
Aw I have to say that the down to earth dad sounds like the most friendly and easy to get on with but I definitely agree that the braggy dad can be super annoying. It is endearing but at the same time like you said you do not need to know how many poops his son has had LOL.
My parents were from the era where dads went to work and moms stayed home to cook, clean, and watch the kids. Today’s world is so very different. Some dads are still not that great in sharing caretaking responsibilities equally, but it’s inspiring when you do see more and more dads stepping up especially when both parents work outside the home.
This is a really cute post. My long-time boyfriend and I do not have kids but he would def be the “Gets Along With Everyone Dad” 🙂
My dad was a stay-at-home dad and he is the best dad we kids could ever hope for. This was in the 90s too so it wasn’t very common at all back then but he did it and he did an awesome job. We could not be prouder!
Loved your perspectives. I have a small one myself and I consider my self between a helicopter and accident prone dad:) Hmmm.. Come to think of it…..
I was trying to see which one my partner fits into but I don’t feel like any of them really match him! Haha I guess it would be closest to the last although he isn’t really a social butterfly. He’s more introvert and analytical but not obsessive. Is a firm believer in natural consequences so he doesn’t hover much. BUT I he’s only been around my kids since they were 6 and 8, so haven’t seen him with a baby!
I feel like there are so many write ups on different types of moms out there—fun to see one for the dads. 🙂
Too funny and perfectly timed! I’m about to go back to work and my husband will be taking our twin daughters to daycare each morning. I have a feeling I know which type he’ll be (gets-along-with-everyone) but ya never know! LOL Thanks for the reminder to give dads a break too, they’re working/trying just as hard as we are! 🙂
lol this is funny but accurate lol I loved this . What a great read 🙂
I used to work at a daycares, and I agree, you mostly see moms with the kids. I love when I see the dads with the kids, it makes me smile. Its tough as an outsider though. I mean, I pick my kids up and do most of the shuffling around, but my husband is just as involved in their life.
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My Ex is def the a combo of 1 and 3. and my brother is 5 and I kind of hope my husband is too. I was really into reading this. looking forward to all the other stuff on here.
Thank you for your comment and feedback Kristina! I think number 5 is great as they are usually the easy-going and open types. Looking forward to seeing you on here more. Have a great weekend. Sheri
So my dad was a mixture of: Gets-Along-With-Everyone, Accident-prone, and braggadocious. It was definitely the best because he was my best friend.
Loved reading this post! Can’t believe that there are different kinds of dads and their is terminologies for everyone!
The last two kinds of dads sound fun… LOL
Such an interesting post, I enjoyed reading this and I bet my dad and my hubby would love this idea.
I found this so funny to read! I’m not sure which I’d class my dad in, but I can notice traits in some of my friends with kids.
Not really sure which dad I am on this list. However I appreciate the article. I’m a traditional man and don’t believe in the stay at home dad role. To each their own. I don’t under appreciate it( it being extremely difficult task) just not for me.
Hi Lucas! I understand your position completely. You are right, it is not for everyone and I think it is great that you are doing what is working for your family.
This tickled me so much to read. Working with different families at my day job I see it all. Especially that father “who gets along with everyone” . I find that they are actually more attractive/physically fit which I think helps in that factor. I also have the dad who is “oblivious” to everything the child is doing…he means well, lol.
Whew! My husband is a get a long with everyone kind of dad. I don’t know how things would go with that type-a stuff, lol because I’m completely opposite. I would have to say I’m a blend of all of these parenting styles with a heavy emphasis of, “they living, ain’t they?”
My husband was definitely the get along with everyone dad. The teachers loved to see him come in.
Very funny and witty post. Yes its true there are lots of different types of dads with individual parenting skills just like mums. As long as there is love and kindness then all is good.
Really fun read. I’m surprised that many dads are stay at home these days. They don’t mind it at all. lol My brother in law is a combo of 4 and 5.
Such a cute read. I think my husband is a mix between the bragging dad and dad who gets along with everyone. And thank you for pointing out that it’s not called babysitting when it’s your child. I hate when people say otherwise.
Ha! I love this post. Mine was a combination of 4-5. 4 now that we are both back to work. 5 when he wasn’t working! I can’t wait to show him and ask him which one he is.
Hi Zuqueta, I am curious to know what type he considers himself to be. 🙂
My old man is the get along with everyone dad. The neighbors. The other parents everyone. Meanwhile I be in the house. Lol
Hahahahahaha Kenya! Sounds like me. I will wait and chit chat with him and the others for a bit then just check out. LOL
I personally don’t know many stay at home moms. However, I believe the family should do whatever works best for them. I’ve seen a trend over the last couple of years of more dads staying home.
Oh! That’s interesting that you don’t know many stay at home moms. I guess many families need to have both parents working, or if the moms are single then they need to go to work. I think SAHM are more common here in Europe where you have paid maternity or paid paternity leave. 🙂
I believe in doing what works best for your home. For us we both leave home in the morning and work a 9 to 5. I don’t judge those that do. As much as I love my kids, I couldn’t deal with being home with them every single day all day long.
I understand you Mimi and I don;t think it is bad or negative to feel that way. It doesn’t mean you love your kids less. You are still a person and an individual and if that is what works for oyur family then that is what is best. 🙂
I think My man would be a helicopter dad Didn’t know there was some labels for them !
Well, I wouldn’t exactly call them “labels”. I dont want to label anyone into a certain category, I just needed those terms in order to describe what I meant.
Love this…my husband is definitely #5…since I am now working and he takes our daughter to therapy he comes home with stories about all the families. Im always sitting there listening like did you conduct interviews…how do you know all of this. But he will make friends with ANY and EVERYONE!!!
I like it when a dad helps and gives a mom a break when taking care of the kids. Love this post.
Thanks Garf! I love it when I see dads helping moms or doing it by themselves. Really warms my heart and I think both sides deserve the same credit.
Ha! I’ve seen some of these types of parents at my kids’ daycare. I definitely think dads can be stay-at-home parents just as much as moms. Some of us are just not built for that though.
LOL. I can imagine. I think it is great that dads are getting on board to do their best and not all dads are made to do so, just like not all moms are made to either. Thanks for stopping by.
Interesting post I actually work in ECE and have to admit, I haven’t seen these types of dads myself. I guess all dads are unique people and love their children in different ways
Hi Marleen, they are out there trust me. LOL. May I ask, what is ECE?
I know all of these types of dads, I like it when a Dad actively helps out and gives poor mama a break!
I’ve not met a stay at home dad yet but I think there needs to be more of them, it’s great for dads to play a more prominent part in their kids lives =^.^=
WHat an amazing post! These types of dads put a smile on my face. It really made me laugh
There’s so many different types of parents in the world 🙂 loved this post, so informative haha 🙂
Haha very funny to read, I am way to young to think about daycare but I totally feel this list!
X, Alex
Hi Lex! if or when you do become a dad, we’ll see just where you fit in to here 🙂
This is a good list! My dad is the best dad ever and I think he has something of all categories.
Being a mom of two I am very much aware that my husband does things differently as a dad and they are so much fun always. The Helicopter Dads are awesome & my husband is one of those for sure.
Hi Lisa! Helicopter dads are great because some of them don’t overdo it. They are doting dads and we love to see that connection with kids.
CUTE! My husband is the get along with everyone dad. We both work from home so we share drop-off responsibilities!
My hubby is exactly the same. Gets along with everyone plus the kids. I like well and all-rounded dads. They are the best.
Well said. I think that, recently, the stay-at- home dad is more common category.
My husband doesn’t quite fit into any of the categories but he is literally the best dad ever. He would be a great stay at home dad.
No matter what type of dad, they all play the same importance in our lives. We love them!!!
I don’t think I know a single stay-at-home dad! I wish I did. I feel like it’s time to see some changes in our society 🙂
Hi Divya – I am seeing many of these changes, at least over here in Europe there are lots of stay at home dads because paternity leave is offered in most EU countries.
I’d get along with the accident prone dad since I am as well!
My dad actually stayed at home with me so I don’t believe only moms should be at home. My dad did it all and he was fantastic at it.
Hi Amber! I am so glad you got to spend those valuable years with your dad! Happy holidays to you and your family. 🙂
Oh dads. Mine is a sarcastic, cynical man of few words. However he’s always there for you when you need it. This is a good list, though. Covers the range.
LOL. Hahahahaha. I am glad he is there for you when you need him. 🙂
Dads do so much, they just do it differently. We’ve made the difficult decision this year for me to stay home and parent our two littles why hubby goes to work. Quite a different dynamic for everyone. I love this dad-centric-post!
Thanks Meg! I think SAHD should also get the same credit as SAHM. It is so difficult when both work and if one can stay home, and it has to be the dad, then I say “why not?’
Our family takes a Biblical road when it comes to family. My husbands role is to provide for our family and mine is to care for our family. That’s work out well for us in the 16 years we’ve been married and rising our family.
Hi Saidah! I think that is great. I say, whatever works best for your family is what you should do. I like that there is a choice and everyone is free to make the one that works out best for them. 🙂
A good read again Lady! I’ve experienced some of the types and I do agree with you. Do what is best for your family. Whoever stays home should be doing the best job for their family. That’s parenting.
Thanks again for you article.
Thank you Joleisa! Yes parenting is about doing what is best for your child and raising them in the right way. Teaching them while caring for them. Does not matter which parent is doing it for the most part of the day. 🙂