Albanian Men and Their Children
Shëngjin, Albania
When we were researching our move, it was noted several times that traditional gender roles are the norm here. What wasn’t included in the description, was how involved and attentive fathers are with their kids. A bit different than the traditional gender roles touted in the US. (And yes, I realize there are many attentive fathers in the in the US, however they usually aren’t the ones invested in traditional roles.)
I have been uniformly impressed with the amount of attention fathers give their children here - including babies and toddlers. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve marveled at dads pushing a baby buggy, or holding the hand of a toddler, no mom in sight. They take their children to the beach, sans mom. And when mom is around, they two parents share responsibility; it doesn’t all land on her.
The men are patient and sweet, and genuinely seem to be having a great time with their children. It’s such a beautiful sight! I wish I could share some photos of these ubiquitous moments, but I would never snap a photo without permission, much less post it. So I am left to merely talk about it.
This morning, we were having coffee at our favorite coffee bar. A man was sitting at the next table with his one year old. They both noticed Valentino. The man was smiling, talking to his child, pointing, encouraging the baby’s curiosity. And when they left, this man held his child’s hand allowing him to walk with his slow, tiny steps. Patient.
This is the norm. It’s admirable. It’s beautiful. And I’m glad to be able to see this version of fatherhood.
Valentino for Reference
This little guy garners a ridiculous amount of attention.
