Do Hands-On Dads Have “More Cojones”?

Deputy prime minister Nick Clegg’s wife, Miriam González Durántez, interrupted a talk by her husband on Wednesday to stick up for hands-on dads. Ms González Durántez stated that men who take the time to look after their children and develop strong relationships with them have “more cojones” that those who don’t – despite stereotypical views that hands-on dads are soft and lacking in masculinity.

Miriam stated to an audience of London-based dads: “If you and other modern working fathers start saying, not only loudly but also proudly, that taking care of your own children and being responsible for your children does not affect your level of testosterone – and that those men who actually treat women as equals are the ones with most cojones.”

1.Fighting Gender Stereotypes for Better Parenting

We couldn’t agree more! It certainly takes more in the cojones department to be an out-and-proud hands-on dad these days, than to be a more socially acceptable “breadwinner”. While both roles are hugely important, it’s time to get away from the outdated idea that dads bring home the bacon, while mums look after the kiddywinks.

In the 21^st Century, it’s time to accept that families are more flexible and diverse than ever. This means that legislation needs to change to give both parents workable, flexible parental leave. And that’s what Clegg’s speech was introducing; soon we should start to see new legislation that redresses the balance and fights informal societal stereotypes.

• Interested in what Miriam had to say? Watch the video here.

While we leave you to muse on that one, we thought we’d take a minute or two to celebrate some great celebrity dads out there in the spotlight before we leave you to play some free bingo games for fun. Prepare to go a little bit gooey…

2.5 Amazing Hands-on Celebrity Dads

1. Brad Pitt

This father of six (!) certainly has his hands full with Shiloh Nouvel, Zahara Marley, Knox Leon, Maddox Chivan, Vivienne Marcheline and Pax Thien but takes it all in his stride.

2. David Beckham

Romeo, Harper, Cruz and Brooklyn certainly keep their dad busy, but David is said to be a very hands-on caring father.

3. Seal

Seal is always photographed having fun with (and being protective of) Henry, Johan and Lou  – and with Heidi’s first daughter Leni.

4. Matt Damon

Matt takes on full pram-pushing responsibilities and even became an instant step dad to Alexia when he shacked up with his wife Luciana Barosso. Now Isabella, Gia and Stella are on the scene, this is a daddy with lots of daughters!

5. Jamie Oliver

He might have cursed his children with frankly nauseating names, but Poppy Honey Rosie, Daisy Boo Pamela, Petal Blossom Rainbow and Buddy Bear Maurice have one caring, health-conscious dad.