Fathers' battle diapers in unusual competition

JAKARTA (JP): An unusual scene was witnessed here yesterday. Fathers struggling to put a diaper on their babies.

"The diaper ripped," said Enro, the father of 4-month-old Rinco. He admitted that yesterday was his first time at diapering.

"Normally my wife does these things. I have to work."

Enro was a participant in a Huggies diaper-changing contest, part of the annual Baby Fair organized by Tomy, Gymboree and Toys 'R' Us. It was held from April 17 until today at Toys 'R' Us stores in the city.

During the Baby Fair, various activities were organized for children from a few months old to 3 years old, and for their parents. Baby crawling races, relay races of mothers and their children, puzzles and boogie dancing were all part of the fun.

About 500 babies with parents in tow have so far taken part in the Baby Fair.

The marketing manager of Tomy, Eko Wibowo, said: "We organize the Baby Fair to build baby confidence."

Lots of fun was had as parents and children were heard laughing and cheering each other on. During the baby crawling final, parents were encouraging their crawling sons and daughters toward the finish line by tempting them with their favorite toys. Unfortunately, all the babies wanted to do was play with rival crawlers' toys.

One participant, Michael, was participating in the games with his wife and 5-month-old sin, Justin. "We are enjoying this because it is a family thing. It's like going out."

Michael won as the fastest diaper-changing father. "I had lessons from my wife last week."

The winners of the finals were rewarded with large presents and a special cup.

The diaper-changing contest was organized by Kimberly-Clark. (Marieke Van Heek)