Recently, I wrote an article about fathers and their role in a child's life. I wanted to share it with all of you!Fall, Family, and Fathers
Fall is a perfect time of year for family outings. There are so many great activities offered in the community. The children are excited too, because of the fun things they get to do with mom and dad. They have a chance to spend time with not only mom but dad too.
The father’s role in a child’s life is so important. A recent study reviewed 24 research studies in the past 20 years. They found a child that has an active and regular engagement with their father, or a father figure, influences them in the following ways:
1. less likely to smoke
2. less likely to get into trouble with police/reduce criminal behavior
3. less likely to drop out of school
4. achieve better levels of education
5. develop good friends with children of both sexes
6. have enhanced cognitive skills: intelligence (found to score higher on measures of verbal and mathematical ability), reasoning, and language development
7. feel loved, allowing for healthy self esteem
8. have a sense of security (physical and emotional) = TRUST
9. have emotional support which has been found to help children empathize better with others, better social skills
The studies consistently show that the earlier a father is involved, the better it will be for the child long term. Also, regular and consistent involvement plays a key role in a child’s development.
I encourage all fathers not to doubt their influence and abilities. It’s okay if you make mistakes. You learn by doing. Create rituals with your child. Think of things you can do with your child that will become predictable and reassuring. For example: walking your child to the bus stop, playing a particular game. At times, you may need to be creative, especially if you work long hours or travel. Find ways that your child can be involved. Take your child with you to do errands. Get their input when you can and show them things that you are doing. For example: If you need to get air in your tire, show them how to do it. It’s about exploring and learning together and answering all of their many questions. This is when the bond is strengthened.
My dad passed away six years ago but I can still hear his voice, his messages…”You can do it.” “Go for it!” “I believe in you.” What an impact he made in my life. If it weren't for the role he played in my life, I may not have had the confidence to accomplish many of my goals.
This article is to encourage you to continue doing all that you do. You are making a difference in your child’s life. Embrace the moments and remember the role you play matters and makes an impact.
Proverbs 2:6 “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.”
God Bless our Dads,
Dr. Nina