With the change in dynamics of today’s world, it’s not just the mother who’s a primary caregiver. Both parents should share responsibilities more equally, balancing work and home life together. This shift allows for a more collaborative approach to raising children, where both parents contribute to nurturing and guiding their children.

Studies show that when parents share responsibilities and promote gender equality, it leads to greater marital satisfaction and better parenting experiences. Children benefit from having involved fathers, and couples often find their relationships stronger due to their shared parenting experiences. 

 

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A 2018 study published by the Journal of Family Psychology, showed that among partners with a higher rate of marital conflict, their children often reported lower feelings of secure attachments to their fathers. The same study also concluded that taking the time early in pregnancy to build trust with your partner and focus on your relationship may reduce conflict and later improve your child’s attachment to you.

However, these new roles that are more than being a bread earner of the family can be tough for some fathers to adjust to. Traditional views still linger, and some dads may feel stressed or inadequate. Despite wanting to be more involved in parenting, breaking away from old norms can be challenging and cause feelings of failure. To overcome this, here’s how you can navigate your role as a father: 

 

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Set A Positive Example

One of the most important roles a father can play is setting a positive example for his children. Kids are very observant and often imitate the behaviour they see. For instance, if a father shows empathy and kindness when a child is upset, the child learns to act with compassion toward others. On the other hand, if a father frequently reacts with anger, the child may start to rely on anger in frustrating situations.

Being loving and responsive to a child’s needs helps build a strong foundation for their development. Fathers who are engaged and supportive from a young age contribute significantly to their child’s overall well-being. Also, the way fathers care for and treat their children influences their development and has a lasting impact on their physical and mental health.

 

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Make Time to Know Each Other Better

As your children grow, they will discover new interests and learn new things at school, colleges and the world around them. They would be eager to share these experiences with you. It’s important for you as a father to engage with them and show genuine interest in their lives. You have to be all ears and be their confidant. Children crave attention and involvement from their parents. Take pride in knowing details about your child’s likes, friends, fears, and feelings. This connection helps build trust and makes it easier for them to open up about bigger challenges as they get older.

Equally important is letting your kids get to know you. Share your own interests and activities with them. Simple actions like letting them help with car maintenance, cooking your favourite meal, or attending a sports game or movie together can strengthen your bond. By involving them in your world, you prevent emotional distance and foster a closer, more open relationship.

 

Be a Tool to Build Resilience

Beyond showing care and empathy, fathers play a crucial role in helping their children build resilience. They often encourage adventurous activities that push kids out of their comfort zones in a supportive way. This might include engaging in rough-and-tumble play, like chasing games, which helps children develop both physical strength and psychological resilience. These active, playful interactions teach children how to handle challenges and bounce back from setbacks while also providing a lot of fun and laughter.

Activities like tickling games and playful roughhousing create moments filled with joyful shrieks and giggles. This type of play not only strengthens the father-child bond but also has a positive impact on a child's overall development, helping them grow more confident and resilient.

 

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Lead by Doing

Men and women have different ways of doing things, and these differences can shape how children understand the world. When children grow up with an involved father. For example, girls who have active, caring fathers learn what respectful behaviour from men looks like, which helps them build healthier relationships with the opposite sex. They gain an understanding of positive actions and behaviours, which helps them feel secure and less likely to be exploited.

Boys also benefit from having their fathers around. They learn how to express their masculinity in positive ways and avoid violence. Fathers can teach their sons about proper behaviour, hygiene, and sexuality in age-appropriate ways. Sociologist David Popenoe highlights that fathers are more than just additional adults in the home; they provide unique benefits and guidance that significantly influence their children’s development and understanding of the world.

 

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Shape the Family Environment 

How a father treats the mother is crucial in shaping the family environment. When fathers treat their partners with respect and kindness, it sets a positive example for their children. Children observe and learn from their parents' interactions, so a loving and respectful relationship between parents teaches kids about healthy relationships and mutual respect. This positive model helps them understand how to interact respectfully with others, both now and in their future relationships.

 

Additionally, a supportive and affectionate partnership between parents can reduce family stress and create a more stable home environment. When both parents work together harmoniously, it fosters a sense of security and trust in children. This stability allows kids to feel more confident and supported, knowing that their parents are united in their love and committed to each other and their family.

 

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