Rearing a child has always been a contentious issue where prevailing social norms have dictated the outcome. However, Dr Benjamin Spock, through his book on child rearing, opened up vistas that were yet new and original. His death recently at the age of 94 has once again brought into focus the dilemma for parents

PAPA OF TINY FEET

In a time of nuclear families in which wives also contribute to the family kitty, it is imperative that fathers too share the responsibility of bringing up a baby. Don't view the time spent with your child as a chore. It is an integral part of your life that will help strengthen the parent-child bond.

The keynote in approaching fatherhood is to relax. A baby is responsive to parent's feelings. If you are anxious, so will the baby be.

A baby often makes demands on his mother at the most outrageous times, leaving her exhausted. At this time you can encourage her by taking on some of the tasks—such as changing nappies or waking up in the night to look after necessary chores.

It might seem difficult to change your lifestyle that the baby's presence would inevitably demand. You may have to say good-bye to indulgent hobbies that you have developed over the years, the partying that used to be fun. But if you allow yourself to get involved in the process of your child's growing up—building blocks with him, doing jigsaws, and reading from picture books—you will discover a new joy, as you unfold the wonder of life through his eyes.