Readers weigh in on advisers and parenting

Several recent columns have drawn strong responses from readers. Let's take a look.

First off is an e-mail about the pieces that focused on what to look for when choosing a financial planner, and how much such a planner should be expected to charge.

Jim said he is a certified financial planner and fee-only financial adviser himself and the information I provided was on target. But he wanted to add a little more.

"I recommend that consumers review some other basic resources that are available to them to verify and validate fees and/or commissions," Jim wrote. "People who invest in mutual funds and variable annuities should request a prospectus from the registered representative before investing any money. The prospectus will outline in detail all the expenses and commissions of investing in the product.

"Those individuals that are looking for investment advice from a registered representative or investment adviser should request an ADV (form) before providing any money. The ADV describes a complete description of the services that the adviser will provide, their experience and background, any conflicts of interest and the fees that will be charged."

Both good points. And for those of you who are looking for an adviser, please remember that this is not a time to take shortcuts. It may seem tedious, but you'll be better off in the long run if you do your homework before forking over your hard-earned cash for financial advice.

Next up, several readers responded to my experiences during a few days spent as a "stay-at-home dad" and primary caregiver for my three daughters.

Of course, my mom, who stayed at home for several years to help raise me and my sister, thought it was "wonderful," but she might have a bias. (She likes anything that mentions her grandchildren.)

But other readers also said the column rang true. Alana wrote, "I just wanted to compliment you on your column about taking care of your girls. I wish more dads could experience this, so they could truly understand what it's like to be an at-home mom."

I agree, Alana. I know I didn't do nearly as good a job as my wife does, but a few weeks back in the office haven't made me regret spending those days at home. I highly recommend that any dads who haven't had this chance should give it a shot if circumstances permit. One word of advice: If you have daughters, hire a neighborhood girl to do their hair!