“Men are breadwinners; women are homemakers.” It has been a traditional way of division of household work for a long time. However, social norm is changing as gender equality is on the table. Men and women are both eager to act according to their will. To push the social movement forward, family education is necessary.

In April, 6 pairs of father and daughter were invited to join an interesting parent-child activity named “School for Father - Hairstyling”, organised by YWCA’s Women Affairs Department. The fathers were taught to tie their daughter’s hair in ponytail, pigtails or in a braid, the job usually done by their wives. They practiced braiding with wools in different colours, and learnt how to prevent breaking the elastic bands.

The concept of “me time” was also introduced in the workshop. The fathers learnt that everyone needs leisure time, no matter how responsible and caring one is. By equipping themselves with more parenting skills, they could share the workload with their better half, and at the same time build solid relationship with their children.

Feedbacks from the fathers were positive. They all agreed that both parents should share the responsibility in the household. They showed interest in learning more “embarrassing” skills that they used to consider as women’s duty. The Association will consider organising other practical workshops for the fathers so as to benefit more families.