The role of a dad in a family has changed dramatically in the past century. In the past, fatherhood mainly provided for the family and left the parenting to the mom. But in the last few decades, studies have shown the importance of dads in parenting. Your presence influences your children’s success, well-being, and happiness.
As a father, you want to influence your child’s life positively. Through good parenting, children learn there can be strength in weakness, the gift of vulnerability, and the importance of healthy relationships. They should also learn how to take safe risks and traverse powerful emotions, such as hurt, anger, and sadness.
Becoming a dad is difficult, especially at a young age.
How a dad can connect with his child
1. Provide
One of the most significant roles of any parent is to provide for their children. Give your child the basics and nourishment needed for healthy development. Even if you don’t stay with your children, providing for them can create a stronger bond or show them you care.
But if circumstances can’t allow you to be the provider, there are other ways to be part of your child’s life.
2. Spend time and play with your children
Setting time aside for your child means sacrificing other things or hobbies. But it’s time well spent.
There are several ways to spend time with your child and make it enjoyable. For instance, something as simple as peekaboo can make your toddler happy. You can read to them for older babies and make the stories pleasant. Here, you can change the tone of your voice for some characters to make the story more animated.
Besides books, you can interact with older children via games or favorite shows. Playing games, both outdoor and indoor video games, can strengthen your bond. You can reach their level by joining your child’s tea party or playing with dolls or trucks.
3. Talk with your child and listen
Children constantly learn from their surroundings, so being there for them in their younger years is essential. Unfortunately, in some societies, dads only speak with their children when they make mistakes, but then your child may grow up fearing you.
Gather for dinner and share some funny or thoughtful experiences you’ve had throughout your day. Dinner time is also suitable for knowing what’s happening in your child’s life. Listening to your children helps them understand that their feelings are valid and that they have someone there for them. They will also seek your counsel when they become older.
4. Be a role model and teacher
Your guidance and validation are vital to your child’s self-esteem, identity, and future relationships.
Traditionally, dads aren’t big on sharing who they are with their children, but you should try introducing them to you. Share your hobbies, who you are, where you come from, and your aspirations. Vulnerability is difficult, but it helps build better relationships. However, you must find a sweet balance to avoid overwhelming them with emotions.
Also, respect your wife or partner even if you don’t share the same roof. Your influence can determine whether your child will have a stable relationship in the future and how they react to mistreatment — that is, will they stand up for themselves?
5. Get creative
Besides participating in your child’s play, they can participate in your hobbies or errands. For example, they can help you when fixing things around the house or shopping. This teaches DIY skills, the value of self-sustenance, or budgeting.
Today, most families don’t have family game nights or movie nights. Instead, you can have a game variation for your home with rules like Scrabble, Monopoly, Twenty Questions, and more. It’s an excellent time for banter, playful conversations, and bonding.
6. Discipline with love
You want to bring up a responsible and functional adult, so punishment is part of the repertoire of a dad. Find ways to discipline your child and set reasonable limits. As much as you want your child to be your friend, you are still their father, and the truth is you can’t be the cool dad throughout.
But if you discipline them fairly and calmly, you won’t break your bond.
As a dad, your presence, guidance, and affections are vital for your children. It goes with them wherever they are, gives them self-identity, and a foundation for development.
