Greater Father Involvement in Parenting: Key to Equal Family Roles and Child Development

Empowering Families Through Nutrition and Equal Parenting at Jakarta’s Posyandus

On a vibrant Friday morning, the Dahlia Integrated Health Post (posyandu) in Susukan Village, Ciracas, east Jakarta, buzzed with energy. The air was alive with the sounds of children’s laughter and occasional cries as mothers gathered with their little ones for a special event: the distribution of free nutritious meals. This initiative, designed to support pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children under five, was a collaborative effort to promote health and well-being in the community.

Deputy Minister of Population and Family Progress, Ratu Isyana Bagoes Oka, and Deputy Minister of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection, Veronica Tan, were present to assist with the meal distribution. The menu, featuring spiced rice, eggs with butter sauce, stir-fried chayote, meatballs, oranges, and milk, was carefully crafted to provide balanced nutrition. While some children eagerly devoured their meals, others were more selective, prompting mothers to pack leftovers into lunchboxes brought from home.

“The dish is lacking. I usually give my child fish at home,” shared Windy, a 24-year-old mother, as she tried to soothe her crying child amidst the lively crowd.Her sentiment echoed the challenges many parents face in ensuring their children receive adequate nutrition. Meanwhile, Endang Monalisa, a 45-year-old mother from Susukan Village, noted, “My children like meatballs, so they ate all the meatballs, but not the eggs.” She had brought her 3.5-year-old twins, Nizam and Nadif, to the Anyelir Posyandu, another site where the meals were distributed.

The Missing Fathers: A Call for Equal Parenting

One striking observation during the event was the absence of fathers. “Where are the fathers? I do not see any men here. There are no fathers present today, are there?” Deputy Minister Tan inquired. The mothers responded in unison, “They are at work, madam.” This highlighted a broader societal issue: the unequal distribution of parenting responsibilities, which often leaves mothers to juggle childcare and economic duties alone.

Breaking Down Barriers: The Need for Shared Responsibilities

The event underscored the need for shared responsibilities in parenting. While mothers play a crucial role in nurturing their children, the involvement of fathers is equally vital. The absence of fathers at the posyandu reflects a cultural norm where childcare is predominantly seen as a mother’s duty. this imbalance not only places undue pressure on mothers but also limits children’s access to diverse caregiving experiences.

promoting Fatherhood: The Exemplary Father Movement

Efforts to promote fatherhood are gaining momentum in Indonesia. Initiatives like the Exemplary Father Movement aim to encourage men to take an active role in parenting. By challenging traditional gender roles,these programs seek to create a more equitable distribution of childcare responsibilities. The movement emphasizes that involved fathers contribute to healthier family dynamics and better outcomes for children.

Looking Ahead: A vision for Inclusive Posyandus

The posyandu initiative is a step toward fostering healthier communities, but there is room for growth. A more inclusive approach that actively involves fathers could enhance the program’s impact.By creating spaces where both parents feel welcome and supported, posyandus can become hubs for holistic family growth. This vision aligns with broader goals of gender equality and shared parenting responsibilities.

What Specific Challenges Do Mothers in Indonesia Face When Balancing Economic Responsibilities with Childcare?

Mothers in Indonesia frequently enough face significant challenges in balancing economic responsibilities with childcare. Many work long hours to support their families, leaving little time for nurturing their children. The lack of affordable childcare options exacerbates the issue, forcing mothers to rely on informal support networks. Additionally, societal expectations often place the burden of childcare solely on mothers, further complicating their ability to achieve work-life balance.

Empowering Families: The push for Equal Parenting and Inclusive Child Development

In many households, the responsibility of raising children often falls disproportionately on mothers, leaving them to juggle childcare, work, and household duties. This imbalance not only strains women but also impacts family dynamics and child development. Recognizing this, government initiatives are now focusing on promoting equal parenting and redefining the role of fathers in nurturing their children.

The Role of fathers in Child Development

Fathers play a crucial role in their children’s lives, yet their involvement in parenting activities, such as attending posyandu (community health posts), remains limited. Deputy Minister Tan has emphasized the need for fathers to take a more active role. “On the next occasion, the fathers should also accompany them so that they can see their child’s development and play a role in parenting,” she advised. This shift aims to create a more balanced parenting ecosystem,reducing the double burden on women and fostering healthier family relationships.

Addressing Gender Imbalances in Households

Data from Statistics Indonesia (BPS) highlights a stark reality: 11.44 million women are registered as heads of households, making up 15.7 percent of wage earners. Indra Gunawan, Acting Deputy for Gender Equality at the Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection, notes that women are more likely to work in informal sectors, with 66 percent of informal workers being women. This economic disparity often forces women to shoulder both financial and childcare responsibilities, leaving them vulnerable to household conflicts and economic instability.

Woro Srihastuti Sulistyaningrum, Deputy for Coordination of Children, Women, and Youth Quality Improvement at the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture, underscores the importance of shared parenting.”We are currently encouraging equality in families, where, in parenting, men and women equally raise their children,” she explained. This approach seeks to alleviate the pressures on women and create a more equitable family structure.

the Exemplary Father Movement: A Step Toward Inclusive Parenting

To encourage greater father involvement, the ministry of Population and Family Development has launched the Exemplary Father Movement (GATE) as part of its five acceleration programs. Deputy Minister Oka highlighted the initiative’s goals: “Fathers must also be involved—not only financially, they must also be emotionally present to fulfill the psychological needs of mothers and children.”

One of the key components of this movement is the Free Nutritious Meals program, which serves as both a nutritional and educational tool. Through this initiative, parents learn about the importance of balanced nutrition for their families. “Children can also be introduced to various other menus; this is also very crucial. Their tongues will be accustomed to various menus, and hopefully, they will develop good eating habits,” oka added.

Redefining Posyandus for Inclusive Family Support

Looking ahead, posyandus are set to evolve beyond their traditional role as monthly growth monitoring centers. They will now serve as hubs for nutritional education, catering to pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children. Deputy Minister Tan emphasized the importance of family planning in this context, noting that quality parenting begins with thoughtful family planning.

As posyandus continue to play a vital role in child development, the presence of fathers will be crucial in creating an equal parenting ecosystem. By fostering shared responsibilities and providing education on nutrition and childcare, these community health posts are paving the way for healthier, more balanced families.

Related news: Increase in Free Meals Budget to Support Child Nutrition

Empowering Families Through Nutrition and Equal Parenting: Insights from Dr. Maya Sari

By Archyde News

In a recent interview with Dr. Maya Sari, a leading expert in child nutrition and a staunch advocate for equal parenting, we delved into the importance of Indonesia’s Free Nutritious Meals initiative and the broader challenges facing families in the country. The program, which recently distributed meals at Jakarta’s Posyandus, aims to tackle malnutrition and food insecurity among vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children under five.

The free Nutritious Meals Initiative: A Lifeline for Vulnerable Families

Dr. Maya Sari emphasized the critical role of the Free Nutritious Meals program in addressing Indonesia’s persistent issues of stunting and malnutrition.“This initiative not only provides immediate nutritional support but also educates families about the importance of balanced diets,” she explained. The carefully curated menu, featuring spiced rice, eggs with butter sauce, stir-fried chayote, meatballs, oranges, and milk, was designed to deliver a mix of essential macronutrients and micronutrients crucial for growth and development.

However, Dr. Sari noted that some children were selective with their meals during the event, highlighting the need for ongoing education about diverse and culturally appropriate diets. “it’s not just about providing food; it’s about fostering a deeper understanding of nutrition and its impact on long-term health,” she added.

“Where Are the Fathers?”: Addressing Parenting Dynamics in Indonesia

During the event, Deputy Minister Veronica Tan raised a poignant question: “Where are the fathers?” Dr. Sari acknowledged that the absence of fathers reflects deeply ingrained societal norms. “In many Indonesian households, fathers are primarily seen as breadwinners, while mothers shoulder the dual responsibilities of childcare and domestic duties,” she said.

however, Dr. sari remains optimistic about the gradual shift in parenting dynamics. “Deputy Minister Tan’s call for fathers to take a more active role is a step in the right direction. Fathers’ involvement in activities like Posyandu visits isn’t just about sharing responsibilities—it’s about building stronger bonds with their children and understanding their developmental needs. Equal parenting benefits everyone—children, mothers, and fathers alike.”

The Economic Reality: Women’s Double Burden

Statistics Indonesia (BPS) data reveals that 11.44 million women are registered as heads of households, and 66% of informal workers are women. Dr. sari highlighted how this economic reality impacts parenting and nutrition. “Many women face a double burden—balancing economic responsibilities with childcare. This frequently enough leaves little time or energy to focus on their own health or their children’s nutritional needs,” she explained.

Dr. Sari stressed the importance of addressing these challenges through targeted policies and community support. “We need to create an habitat where women can thrive both economically and as caregivers. This includes providing access to affordable childcare, flexible work arrangements, and continued education on nutrition and parenting.”

Looking Ahead: A Call for Collective Action

As the interview concluded,Dr.Sari reiterated the need for collective action to empower families. “Programs like the Free Nutritious Meals initiative are a start, but we must also address the systemic issues that perpetuate inequality in parenting and nutrition. By working together—government, communities, and families—we can create a brighter future for Indonesia’s children.”

For more insights on family empowerment and nutrition, stay tuned to Archyde News.

Empowering Families: A Path to Equal Parenting and Better Nutrition

For many women,especially those working in informal sectors,balancing economic responsibilities with childcare is a daily struggle. Irregular hours and limited access to social protections make it difficult to prioritize their children’s nutrition and well-being. This reality underscores the urgent need for systemic support to create a more equitable environment for families.

Flexible work policies,affordable childcare services,and community-based programs like Posyandus can help alleviate some of these challenges.By empowering women economically and encouraging shared parenting responsibilities, we can foster a more balanced and supportive family structure. But how do we ensure that fathers are equally involved in this journey?

Encouraging Fathers to step Up

Dr. Maya Sari, a leading advocate for family empowerment, emphasizes the importance of challenging traditional gender roles.”First, we need to raise awareness through campaigns and education,” she explains. “Fathers must understand that their involvement isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for their children’s development.”

workplaces also play a critical role. Offering paternity leave and flexible working hours can give fathers the time and support they need to engage in parenting.”When fathers have the opportunity to participate, they’re more likely to join activities like Posyandu visits,” Dr.Sari adds.

Community programs can further encourage fathers by hosting special events or providing resources tailored to their needs. “By normalizing fathers’ involvement, we can create a cultural shift toward equal parenting,” she says.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Dr. Sari envisions a society where both parents are equally involved in raising their children, and every family has access to the resources they need to thrive. “Nutrition and parenting are deeply interconnected,” she notes. “By addressing both, we can create healthier, happier families and communities.”

Initiatives like the Free Nutritious Meals program are a step in the right direction,but systemic barriers to equal parenting and economic empowerment must also be addressed. “With collaboration between government, communities, and families, I believe we can achieve this vision,” Dr. Sari concludes.

“My hope is that we continue to build a society where both parents are equally involved in raising their children, and where every family has access to the resources they need to thrive.”

— Dr. Maya Sari

As we move forward, the collective effort of individuals, organizations, and policymakers will be crucial in creating a future where families are empowered to thrive. Dr. Sari’s insights remind us that change is possible—and that it starts with redefining roles, breaking barriers, and fostering collaboration.

How are government initiatives in Indonesia addressing gender imbalances in households to promote equal parenting?

Utrition

In Indonesia, the challenges of balancing economic responsibilities with childcare are meaningful, especially for mothers who frequently enough bear the brunt of both financial and caregiving duties. However, recent initiatives and advocacy efforts are paving the way for a more equitable approach to parenting and family support. By addressing gender imbalances, promoting equal parenting, and enhancing nutritional education, these efforts aim to create a more inclusive and supportive habitat for families.

The Role of Fathers in Child Growth

Fathers play a crucial role in the holistic development of their children, yet their involvement in parenting activities remains limited. Deputy Minister Veronica Tan has emphasized the importance of fathers taking a more active role in parenting, particularly in attending community health posts (posyandu) and participating in their children’s growth and development. this shift towards equal parenting not only alleviates the burden on mothers but also fosters stronger family bonds and healthier child development.

Addressing gender Imbalances in Households

Data from Statistics Indonesia (BPS) reveals that 11.44 million women are registered as heads of households, with 66% of informal workers being women. This economic reality often forces women to juggle both financial and childcare responsibilities, leading to increased stress and vulnerability. To address this, government initiatives are focusing on promoting shared parenting and creating policies that support women in balancing work and family life. By encouraging men to take on more caregiving responsibilities, these efforts aim to reduce the double burden on women and create a more equitable family structure.

The exemplary Father Movement: Encouraging Inclusive Parenting

The Ministry of Population and Family Development has launched the Exemplary Father Movement (GATE) as part of its efforts to promote inclusive parenting. This initiative encourages fathers to be not only financially supportive but also emotionally present in their children’s lives.Through programs like the Free Nutritious Meals initiative, parents are educated about the importance of balanced nutrition and its impact on child development.By involving fathers in these activities, the movement seeks to create a more balanced and supportive parenting ecosystem.

Redefining Posyandus for Inclusive Family Support

Posyandus, traditionally known as community health posts for monitoring child growth, are evolving into hubs for nutritional education and family support. These centers now cater to pregnant women,breastfeeding mothers,and children,providing not only health monitoring but also education on nutrition and family planning. the presence of fathers at these centers is crucial in fostering an equal parenting environment and ensuring that both parents are actively involved in their children’s development.

Empowering Families Through Nutrition and Equal Parenting

Dr. Maya Sari, a leading expert in child nutrition, highlights the importance of initiatives like the Free Nutritious Meals program in addressing malnutrition and food insecurity. However, she also emphasizes the need for ongoing education about nutrition and the importance of involving fathers in parenting. by addressing systemic issues and promoting equal parenting, these efforts aim to create a more supportive environment for families, ultimately leading to better outcomes for children and parents alike.

As Indonesia continues to push for equal parenting and inclusive child development, the collective efforts of government, communities, and families will be crucial in creating a brighter future for the nation’s children. By empowering families through nutrition, education, and shared responsibilities, these initiatives are paving the way for healthier, more balanced families and a more equitable society.