Scottish Sunday: Opinion & Debate: Opinion & Debate

Pizzey Argues Women Should Stay at Home for Childcare

She is one of feminism's pioneers and founder of the UK's first refuge for victims of domestic violence, but after decades of fighting for women's rights Erin Pizzey has come to a startling conclusion: women should stay at home and look after the children while men go out to work.

New Research Supports Pizzey's Views

Pizzey's revelations are supported by new research conducted by Birbeck College in London, which suggests that the longer children are in childcare, as opposed to with parents, the more aggressive they become. The research, part of the ongoing study by Jay Belsky, shows that the more time young children spend in care in their early years, the more aggressive and disobedient they will be by the time they reach primary school.

The Trouble With Working Women: A BBC2 Documentary

Pizzey's remarks are part of the new BBC2 documentary The Trouble With Working Women, which explores why men still dominate top jobs and earn significantly more than women. In the programme, Pizzey expresses her concern about the traditional family dynamic being disrupted and men disenfranchised from their roles. She also highlights the lack of proper childcare and the exhaustion faced by women trying to balance a career and family.

Controversial Views and Pizzey's Background

Erin Pizzey is a noted contrarian in her views on feminism. In 1971, she opened the first refuge for women suffering from domestic violence, which later became Women's Aid. Pizzey has previously suggested that some women may be attracted to abusive relationships, drawing criticism from other feminists. In the documentary, she argues against the idea of women "having it all" and believes that the freedom of choice has imprisoned many women.

Combining Successful Careers with Childcare

While the research supports concerns about aggressive behavior stemming from extensive childcare, Jay Belsky, the professor behind the study, cautions against catastrophizing the findings. He suggests that successful careers can still be combined with childcare, but parents need to be mindful and prioritize their investment in their children beyond financial means. Belsky believes that having a stake in a child's life is crucial.

Hotels: A Haven for Busy Parents

For parents dealing with the challenges of juggling work and childcare, hotels can provide a respite from the daily responsibilities. Whether it's a weekend getaway or a family vacation, hotels offer a range of services and amenities designed to cater to the needs of both adults and children.

Child-Friendly Features

Many hotels have recognized the growing demand for family-friendly accommodations and have tailored their offerings to cater to families. They provide spacious rooms or suites that can comfortably accommodate parents and children. Some hotels also offer age-appropriate amenities, such as cribs, high chairs, and children's menus.

Kids' Clubs and Activities

Hotels often have kids' clubs or activity centers where children can engage in supervised play and take part in various age-appropriate activities. This allows parents to have some alone time or focus on work-related matters while knowing their children are being cared for and entertained in a safe environment.

Convenience and Assistance

Hotels also offer the convenience of on-site dining options, room service, and housekeeping services, relieving parents of some domestic responsibilities. Additionally, concierge services can provide assistance in arranging childcare services or recommending family-friendly attractions and activities in the area.

Creating Memories and Quality Time

Staying at a hotel can be an opportunity for families to create lasting memories and spend quality time together. With a break from the usual routine, parents can focus on bonding with their children and engaging in activities that may not be possible in their everyday lives.

Considerations for Choosing a Family-Friendly Hotel

When selecting a hotel for a family stay, it's essential to consider factors such as the hotel's reputation for hospitality, cleanliness, and safety. Reading reviews, checking for amenities specifically aimed at families, and assessing the hotel's location in relation to nearby attractions and facilities can help parents make an informed choice.