If you’re a dad, you’re doing the most important job of your life. Study after study shows fathers play a critical role in their children’s well-being today and their success as adults tomorrow. It’s not always easy to see that, and both mothers and fathers constantly worry that they’re doing everything wrong. Many of us make the mistake of retreating from our children’s lives when they reach adolescence and tell us to leave them alone.
Deep down, the last thing they want is for you to disappear. You just have to know how to stay in the background but remain in the picture.
Active and engaged fatherhood has been linked to numerous positive outcomes in children’s development. According to the National Fatherhood Initiative, a leading organization focused on promoting responsible fatherhood, studies have found children with involved fathers are twice as likely to attend college, 80 percent less likely to spend time in jail and 75 less likely to experience teen pregnancy.
Other studies have shown improved academic performance, fewer behavioral problems, and enhanced social skills and self-esteem in children whose fathers are actively involved in their lives. And active involvement is good for dads, too. They often experience personal growth, increased satisfaction and a more profound sense of purpose.
How to Become a Better Dad
You’re probably already doing a pretty good job, but everyone can get better. Here are some ideas for how you can:
- Embrace Emotional Openness
It’s OK to show your feelings and share them with your family, even – or perhaps especially – when they’re not pleasant. Being open about anxiety or other emotional issues fosters deeper connections and teaches children healthy emotional responses.
- Create Joyful Memories
Make time for fun and laughter. Be silly, play games and generally create positive experiences your children will remember. Cherish the time you have with your kids. It really is true that children grow up too fast. One day, you’ll be glad you made the most of these years.
- Support Your Partner
Being a supportive partner not only strengthens your adult relationships but also models healthy relationships for children. Sharing responsibilities and showing mutual respect help create a nurturing home environment.
- Lead by Example
Children often emulate their parents’ behaviors; they learn more from what you do than what you say. Demonstrating values like integrity, kindness, and perseverance teaches children to adopt these traits in their own lives.
- Be Present and Engaged
Put away your phone and other distractions when spending time with your children. Being truly present shows your kids they are important and valued. Prioritize daily connection, whether through play, conversation or shared activities like family meals.
- Show Affection and Support
Express love and affection openly. A nurturing father-child relationship boosts self-esteem and emotional well-being. Support your children’s interests, even if they differ from your own, and encourage their individuality and passions.
- Be the Dad
A good father must accept that he’s not his children’s friend. You can have fun and relax with the kids and should never take yourself too seriously. But they need discipline – always fair and never abusive, but firm and clear. It’s not always easy to be “the bad guy,” but it’s how to teach your children how to become mature adults.
Keep Growing
Fatherhood is a dynamic and evolving role that offers countless opportunities for growth and connection. Continue to grow as a person, partner, and parent, and you will see your commitment to self-improvement benefiting your children as much as yourself.
Free Help for Dads (and Moms)
Be Strong International offers several free workshops for parents. They’re an excellent opportunity for men to learn actionable strategies, connect with others and feel more confident in their role as fathers.
To learn more about these and other family resources, call 305-969-7829 or visit Be Strong International’s workshop pages:
- Raising the B.A.R. Parenting Alliance / Parent Club: Be Strong International has partnered with The Children’s Trust’s Parent Club to offer FREE, countywide workshops on relevant topics about raising children, strengthen family connections, improve parenting practices, and support children’s emotional, behavioral, social, and cognitive development. Join a free workshop today
- Family Strengthening: Special programs in Broward and Miami-Dade counties to help parents build healthy relationships with their children.
