For the better part of history, the task of parenting has always been delegated to the mother.
The men are supposed to go out into the world to provide for the family. Women stay inside to take care of the newborn.
It is only very recently that ‘paternity leaves’ are a thing. Even then, it is usually at the expense of the father, an unpaid time-off that is still facing a lot of stigma. After all, in the toxic work culture of Singapore, taking a break, even while sick, can feel like a sin.
Most of the time, fathers make the sacrifice so they can take care of their spouse and their new baby. To help around the house and to be present.
But recent studies show that paternity leaves play a much bigger role than just making supplementary postnatal care available to new mothers.
Here’s why paternity leave isn’t just paid holiday for dads (and why it may actually be important for raising the next generation).
What the Studies Show
A recent study by the National University of Singapore (NUS), highlighted in The Straits Times, shows that when fathers take at least two weeks of paternity leave, their babies fare better both emotionally and cognitively.
Children whose fathers were present during their first days did significantly better on tests and exhibited fewer behavioural problems as they grew. These aren’t just small benefits.
These findings reveal we have grossly underestimated the role a father’s presence plays in early childhood development.
Children whose father was fully present during the first few weeks of birth enjoyed improved cognitive outcomes, stronger social skills, and a better start in life.
This is not to downplay the role of mums at all in raising babies.
But when dad is around, there is less stress on mum. And a happy mum makes a happy baby every time.
Unfortunately, even with numerous studies like the one done by NUS, there are still many systemic and societal obstacles that are preventing new fathers from truly enjoying their fatherhood.
Paternity Leave Isn’t Just a Perk
If you think taking a paternity leave is just an excuse to slack off work, it’s just the opposite.
Dads contribute so many positive things to the household when they take time-off to take care of mum and baby.
For instance, mums experience less stress and feel more supported when dad is around.
Both parents will also develop a stronger bond during those sleepless nights and diaper changes
This shared caregiving plays an important role in reducing household conflict, leading to a stronger, more stable marriage.
Fathers who engage early also tend to stay more involved in their child’s life in the long term.
The result is a harmonious and strong home environment that a child will thrive in.
Moreover, paternity leave is also a great catalyst for promoting shared responsibility in the household.
For far too long, caregiving has been framed primarily as a mother’s duty.
Singapore has made strides in recent years. Since 2017, fathers have been eligible for two weeks of government-paid paternity leave. As of 2024, this has increased to four weeks for children born on or after January 1st.
However, despite these positive changes, the take-up rate for even the initial two weeks has remained stagnant at around 50 to 55 per cent.
This shows that many new dads are still reluctant to apply for paternity leaves. Thanks to cultural attitudes and workplace pressures, taking time-off as a new dad is still a stigma.
A Message to New Dads
It’s important to remember that there is nothing that employers can do to you legally if you take your allotted leave. Not unless they want to be sued for discrimination.
So, Singaporean dads should exercise their rights and stop letting their company or society in general bully them into sacrificing their paternity leave.
Even if you’re not doing it for yourself, think about your baby, waiting at home for their dad.
Take the opportunity to be fully present in your child’s life during their first moments.
Using that time meaningfully, rather than treating it as a break or sideline, can have lasting benefits.
In this career-obsessed world, even mums feel a certain stigma about taking the standard maternity leave, let alone an extended one.
For a population who is desperate for more babies to replace the aging workforce, you would think Singapore would be kinder to parents.
Not just in terms of providing financial aid, but also in building strong family systems and better childhood outcomes.
They must support this shift by encouraging fathers to take their leave without stigma or guilt, and by creating a work culture that values personal time instead of workaholism.
The role of the wider community cannot be overlooked either.
Initiatives like Dads for Life and public campaigns around fatherhood are essential in reshaping societal expectations.
When communities embrace fatherhood as an essential ingredient for a happy childhood, it creates a positive environment for dads. Allowing them to make use of their paternity leaves for the good of their family.
Why Fathers Matter
Paternity leave isn’t a luxury.
It’s an investment—in our children, in our families, and in the country’s future.
At the heart of it all is a simple truth: when fathers are embraced the entire family thrives.
Children grow up feeling more secure and perform better in school. Mothers feel less burdened and more valued.
Fathers shape stronger bonds with their children and gain confidence as parents and as partners.
As a result, society moves one step closer to fostering a healthier family system for generations to come.
So, to all the new dads out there: take your leave, show up, and make it count. Your presence today can shape your child’s tomorrow.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Mamahood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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