Everyone is really nice to me when I have my kid(s) alone. The guy at the corner store where I get my beer almost always gives a free candy bar, middle-aged women touch my arm and say "good job, dad".
My wife seemingly gets none of this, and if anything maybe some subtle judgement. Is this a universal experience?
It’s probably because people assume that you lack anti-social behaviors which is like considered the default for women, but not for men. Also like „being nurturing towards children“ is considered to be good for evolutionary fitness, which attracts people.