Did you think we lived in a society of gender equality? You obviously haven’t been down to your local parent-and-baby group lately.
Dads will almost certainly find themselves overwhelmingly in the minority: women are still the main carers in most families. Of course, if a mother is happier foregoing work for childcare, more power to them, but as a home dad you often get the sense that you’re seen as a bit odd – and parent-and-baby groups can feel like a bit of an alien world.
Having said that, you generally get a warm reception at these things because you’re a novelty, and the most difficult part can be coping with the fact that a little more attention is on you than on the other parents. It’s also worth bearing in mind that such groups are as much about meeting other parents as about doing something with your kids – a lot of people are keen to go because it breaks up what might otherwise be a day indoors with no adult contact. This can be particularly useful for home dads as you’re less likely to know other people in the same situation as you.
If you don't get a warm reception, don't panic. It can take a while for established groups to get used to having a bloke at these sessions, and if you manage to keep going, you will slowly make friends as people see how committed you are.
Make an effort to integrate too - offer to make people cups of tea, read books to any kids that are interested, and, above all, be friendly and approachable, taking any advice given to you in the spirit in which it's intended.
Take things slowly, and you may even find yourself looking forward to the next session!