I am noticing an increasing number of change tables in mens-rooms here in Kiwiland (New Zealand) and I try to make a point of mentioning my appreciation to the staff of the establishment.

I think that until we see the reduction of “Eww why would a man want a change table in the mens room? – pervert!” ideology it will be a slow process to get the facilities updated.

That said – I have been very pleased with the toilet facilities in most malls locally! Parents rooms (lets forget the look of disgust I got from one mother when I walked in to change my child's nappy and her immediate departure. Says more about her than me really) *AND* change tables in the mens-rooms.

GOOD FATHERS MATTER!! As a mom of a 19 year old daughter and a 15 year old son that are happy, well-adjusted, mature and intelligent (okay I'm a proud mom and I had to throw that one in..) I have to tell you that they are that way because of TWO parents. Yes, I am a good mom, not perfect, have made my share of mistakes along the way, but a good parent in all. However, a child needs the balance and input of both a mother and a father in order to grow up with a healthy view of themselves. It doesn't matter which one does the bulk of the caregiving – both sides bring something different and unique to the equation.

My daughter has many friends whose parents are divorced and the fathers are either out of the picture, drunks, or jerks. Each one of those girls has had issues with boyfriends. And each one looks up to and respects my husband because he has been a substitue father for them over the years. My son has an entirely different relationship with his dad than I do and it's good for him. Right now my kids are older and we both are employed, but he would've loved the chance to stay home with them if we could've afforded it back in the day.

As for restrooms – maybe if more men raise their voices, we'll have more “family-friendly” options in public places. And yes, I've changed my share of diapers in weird places (an airplane restroom is the worst). Believe me – women know all about this issue – just look at the lines at a woman's restroom in an old sports arena versus the men's.

GOOD FATHERS MATTER!! As a mom of a 19 year old daughter and a 15 year old son that are happy, well-adjusted, mature and intelligent (okay I'm a proud mom and I had to throw that one in..) I have to tell you that they are that way because of TWO parents. Yes, I am a good mom, not perfect, have made my share of mistakes along the way, but a good parent in all. However, a child needs the balance and input of both a mother and a father in order to grow up with a healthy view of themselves. It doesn't matter which one does the bulk of the caregiving – both sides bring something different and unique to the equation.

My daughter has many friends whose parents are divorced and the fathers are either out of the picture, drunks, or jerks. Each one of those girls has had issues with boyfriends. And each one looks up to and respects my husband because he has been a substitue father for them over the years. My son has an entirely different relationship with his dad than I do and it's good for him. Right now my kids are older and we both are employed, but he would've loved the chance to stay home with them if we could've afforded it back in the day.

As for restrooms – maybe if more men raise their voices, we'll have more “family-friendly” options in public places. And yes, I've changed my share of diapers in weird places (an airplane restroom is the worst). Believe me – women know all about this issue – just look at the lines at a woman's restroom in an old sports arena versus the men's.