Men turn to in-laws for tips on parenting

MEN ARE twice as likely as women to ask their mother-in-law for parenting advice, according to a new report.

Research carried out for the children's charity Barnardo's, found that 53 per cent of fathers said they had consulted their mother-in-law for advice compared with 26 per cent of mothers. The study also found that parents in Britain are struggling. One fifth of the 1,000 parents polled said they found it "very difficult" to look after their children, and two-thirds said it was "fairly difficult".

The report, to be presented today at Barnardo's parenting conference, also shows half of the nation's parents would welcome lessons in parenting.

"The poll shows parents care deeply about the crucial job that they undertake. There needs to be more commitment to helping parents develop skills," said David Gamble, of Barnardo's.