Why public amenities for babies and toddlers should be built with dads in mind

Public amenities should reflect the change that more fathers are now doing parental duties, including taking their children out. — 123rf.com

MORE modern fathers are assuming responsibilities traditionally carried out by mothers, showing that the society is moving towards gender-neutral parental roles. It's common for fathers now to take their babies or toddlers out without mothers, whether for meals or a trip to the toy store. But as far as public amenities in shopping malls and other public areas go, the design, placement and construction are still very much skewed towards mothers.

A baby room, also known as a nursing or a parents room, for example, is an absolute necessity for parents when they take their young children out. Some parents would only go to places that offer parents room. This makes sense because the outing would be less stressful for everyone. If a baby needs a diaper change, milk which requires hot water or a quiet place for feeding, then this room will give both parent and child that private space.