Why Papas Matter in Parenting Too

This year, I wanted to write something different. Not just a Father’s Day post, but a reflection—from one parent to another. From me, Meera, a mother of two in Surat, to you.

You see, I used to think I had to do it all. That being a mom meant carrying the entire mental load of parenting — from diaper sizes to doctor’s appointments to bedtime routines and everything in between.

Somewhere in that swirl of responsibility, I started thinking of you as… extra. A helpful guest star. Not a partner.

But I realize now—that wasn’t fair. And more importantly, it wasn’t true.

At D’bebé, we believe parenting is a shared jjourney—ne where both parents matter, both show up, and both leave lasting impressions on a child’s heart.

Modern Fatherhood: The Quiet Shift We Don’t Talk About

We talk so much about what it means to be a modern mother. But not enough about what it means to be a modern father.

Dads today are showing up in ways our own fathers and grandfathers often didn’t — not because they didn’t care, but because they weren’t always allowed to.

Today’s papas are

• Getting down on the floor to build block towers
• Mastering baby carriers and bedtime songs
• Taking parental leave (when they can)
• Asking the big questions: “How do I connect better?” What does my child need from me?”

They’re discovering that playtime isn’t a break from parenting — it is parenting.

Why Playtime with Dad Matters More Than We Realize

When you take over the fort-building, when you invent those silly voices, when you make dinosaur shadows dance on the wall—you’re not just being goofy. You’re giving our children the kind of joyful, free, and emotionally safe experience experiencethat builds real connection.

And it’s beautiful to watch.

Your playtime looks different from mine, and that’s okay. Maybe it’s wrestling on the bed or pretending the laundry basket is a rocket ship. Maybe it’s turning a walk into an adventure or letting our toddler help you wash the car. Whatever it is, it matters.

You bring something only you can — and I want you to know it’s seen. It’s felt.

A Gentle Confession

Happy Father’s Day to all the papas who show up—not just with strength, but with heart. 💛

There were times I felt resentful, alone, even overwhelmed. Not always because you weren’t helping—but because I wasn’t letting you.

Maybe I believed only I could do it “right.”
Maybe I thought asking for help was a sign of failure.
Or maybe—and this is the hard part—I was so caught up in being the default parent that I forgot to make space for you.

You weren’t absent. I just… crowded you out.

If you’re reading this, and you’ve ever felt like you were on the sidelines, know this: I want to change that.

I want to share the laughter and the late nights, the messy dinners and the magical moments.
I want our children to remember both of us—not as perfect parents, but as a team.

Because the role of a father in family life is just as important as a mother’s, especially when it comes to parents teaching their child how to love, learn, and live with intention.

With all the love,

Meera

Simple Ways to Celebrate Papas This Father’s Day

Father’s Day is a wonderful chance to make dads feel appreciated—but it doesn’t have to be grand or complicated. Whether you’re celebrating international Father’s Day or wondering when is Father’s Day in India (it’s the third Sunday of June), the best gifts are always moments shared.

Here are some warm, simple ways to celebrate a father who means the world:

Family Day Out:

Plan a relaxed outing. A picnic in the park, a short drive, or just a walk can turn into a moment where children helping parents and parents teaching their child happens naturally—through shared time and stories.

His Favorite Food:

Cook or order dad’s favorite meal. These shared meals are where the role of mother and father in a family shines—creating rituals that kids carry with them forever.

Movie Night:

Watch a film dad enjoys or a family favorite. Grab the popcorn, pile on the pillows, and enjoy togetherness. It’s one of the simplest ways to honor the importance of father without needing a big gesture — and a perfect moment of quality parenting through shared experiences.

A Thoughtful Gift:

A small but meaningful gift goes a long way. Whether it’s a book, a tool, or a craft made by the kids, it’s a reminder of the bond between parent and cchild—he heart of intentional parenting that nurtures love and connection.

Join in Playtime:

Let dad take the lead during play. It’s beautiful to watch the role of father in the family shine as he engages, laughs, and gets ccreative—howing that parenting is not a one-person job, but a joyful, shared journey.

Remember, it’s these everyday mmoments—he giggles, the hugs, the simple rroutines—hat define the importance of fa fatherin a child’s life.

Looking to create more shared memories? Explore D’bebé’s thoughtful collection for gifts that encourage bonding. From our Dino Dress-Up Kit to Montessori-inspired activities, we believe in parent-teaching children through love, presence, and purpose.

👉 Follow us on Instagram @my.dbebe.boutique for daily parenting inspiration, play ideas, and stories that celebrate all kinds of caregivers.