DAD’S DAY IS COMING - PART II


In Part I we saw the decline of Dad’s role in the family. Here we look at the special gifts fathers bring to their children.

A local primary school principal says children don’t know what to do at recess. They look vacant or can become very competitive. They just don’t know how to play.

The UTNE Reader points to research that kids learn to play mainly from Dads. In roughhousing, they learn to have fun and also how far they can go. Dads help kids learn controls. According to UTNE, fathers’ style of play has particular significance for children.

An even more surprising research result has to do with empathy. We usually associate children’s experience of empathy with mothers and grandmothers. A 26-year longitudinal study showed this: “The single most important childhood factor in developing empathy is paternal involvement in child care”.

So, if child well-being is our prime concern, the rushing Dads must slow down for the kids. Separated and divorced parents need to worry less about their own rights and make sure the kids have good “Dad Time”.

The job of parenting is too big for two parents. For one parent it is barely manageable at a high cost to the parent. Those children must have trusted, male, intimate contact if they are to enjoy any sense of maturity.

Let’s hear from you on this and other topics on THE FAMILY CHALLENGE by simply clicking on the comment button found below this blog.