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Poll

The Important Role of Dads

Parents – both Moms and Dads – are their child’s first teachers. Although their styles of interaction may be different – both are extremely important in their child’s development.  Dads are not assistant mothers. New dads may be concerned that they don’t know how to be a good father.


Common characteristics of effective fathers:
-They are involved in the day-to-day lives of their children
-They demonstrate unwavering love
-They provide support – financially, emotional, mentally, physically socially and spiritually. While children need food, clothing and shelter – a father’s attention and love is essential.
-They practice appropriate discipline – disciplining with respect and love
-They interact with their children on a regular basis – whether doing chores, reading a book, going for a walk, just hanging out. The activity is not as important as the fact that dad is totally tuned into his child during this time.
-They provide consistency in their children’s lives

Kids who grow up with fathers who stay involved have been shown to:

-Perform better in school
-Get in less trouble with the law
-Have better jobs and careers
-Develop better relationships with others
-Have higher self-esteem

Important for new dads to dive right in:
-Know your baby’s routine – help with feedings, diaper changes, other baby chores
-Move with your baby – making time for a stroller ride, or a walk in a carrier establishes activity early in life
-Talk to your partner if you’re feeling left out
-Be informed – try to attend well-child check ups. Read the hand outs
-Talk to other dads
-Enjoy the rough and tumble play style of a dad - and keep in mind that your child learns through play.  Even at this young age, physical movement with your baby enhances gross motor development.  And as you interact with your child you are enhancing social development (and keeping tabs on this aspect of development).  
-Being an involved dad doesn't mean that you have to constantly entertain your child, either.  Allowing your baby some unstructured playtime, keeping in mind basic safety - baby should be in a safe place and in visual contact - will encourage baby's curiosity and will enhance self-reliance.
 

Source: www.meriter.com