"According to an analysis by the Federal Institute for Population Research, only ten per cent of fathers in Germany take more than two months of parental allowance after the birth of their child. And this is despite the fact that fathers, like mothers, are entitled to up to 36 months of parental leave with temporary parental allowance," reports Maria Gierth, who heads the families office at the University of Wuppertal.

The Family Report 2024 also shows that in almost one in three couples, the father continues to work full-time after the birth of the first child. "However, there are many good reasons for fathers to take parental leave on an equal footing with mothers," says Gierth.

Fathers on parental leave play an important role in the family. They help to improve the compatibility of family and career. Although society's attitude towards parental leave by fathers is slowly changing in a positive direction, there is still a need for widespread education to break down traditional role models. Maria Gierth: "For these reasons, we encourage fathers to be active parents. Masculinity has many facets!"

Education and counselling

As part of the "Be a man - take parental leave" campaign, beverage lids with seven different motifs will be available in the university pub and other university locations from 26 May. They feature results from studies that have looked at fathers on parental leave and the impact of parental leave on family life, family finances and child development.

On Wednesday, 28 May, the families office will also be offering an open consultation hour for (expectant) fathers from 11 am to 12.30 pm. Anyone interested can come to Building K, Level 12, Room 30-35 for advice on the topic of parental leave. It is not necessary to register in advance.

The campaign website also provides useful information and further links on the topic.