Top 8 surprises in the first 50 stories

These were themes I didn't see coming.

The first 50 stories submitted by working parents contained a few predictable elements, but collectively they produced the following eight surprises: 
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1. Many working men confidently, quickly and clearly articulate how their work inspires them to parent.
   Of the first 50 stories, 22 were from men. None of them mentioned a concern that working might diminish their role as a father.
   Examples:  Once-a-Month Lunches and A Haven for Her Soul
   
   
2. Many women mentioned that they enjoy their work.
   Interestingly men didn't mention this often or maybe ever. I'm guessing that a lot of men do enjoy their work, but they didn't mention that in their stories.
   Examples:  My Fear Evaporated and Improved Efficiency
   
   
3. Some new fathers find it difficult to return to work after their babies are born.
   I didn't expect to hear this. Maybe the surprise reflects my age (55).
   Example:  Back to Work on Monday
   
   
4. Meal prep is a challenge for many dual career couples, and there are a lot of men doing a lot of food prep in those families.
   This topic results in a lot of comments!
   Examples:  Divide and Conquer and What's For Dinner?
   
   
5. Not one story submitter has complained that their employer hinders their ability to be a good parent.
   There is a lot of social media chatter about the need for more flexibility in the workplace and better childcare, but nobody mentioned those topics in these stories.
   
   
6. Many working parents believe that their need to focus on work has been a positive influence on their children.
   Sometimes this wasn't by design and the value was only realized afterward.
   Examples:  A Family of Teachers and Cultural Experience
   
   
7. Executives with very demanding careers appear to be great parents too.
   This is probably because they apply the same strong skills that have propelled them in the workplace when they're raising their kids.
   Examples: Charli's Angels and Is it Time to Go Home?
   
   
8. Working Parent limitations sometimes result in valuable lessons for their kids.​
   Examples:  Laundry Lineup and Help Yourself

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Were you surprised by anything you read in these stories?

Kathy Calder Haselmaier is the editor of Working Parent Stories. She is a mother and wife who worked full-time for 32 years.

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