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So Much for Fathers To Do

The role of fathers has definitely changed in the last 20 years.

Whether it is different because men have "changed," or more likely "society" has changed how it views the important role a father plays in a child's life.

Most men want to be involved with their children — some instinctively know how to parent, some know how to get involved, but most may need help to build their confidence and skills.

Whatever the situation, there are lots of resources available offering insight on men's changing roles and the resistance they may encounter in trying to become more involved in child rearing.

Research supports the involvement of fathers in their child's early childhood experience and care:

• Their children get better grades in school.*
• Their children are less likely to be involved with drugs and alcohol.*
• Their children are more emotionally secure as a result of a warm, close relationship with their father* (see
• Father/child interaction provides a high level of positive, playful activities.*

  Fathers are different from mothers. They parent different — they play different — they interact different — and it is that different perspective and interaction that helps a child develop into the best person they can be.

  David Popenoe, author of "Disturbing the Nest: Family Change and Decline in Modern Societies," wrote "What fathers do — their special parenting style — is not only highly complementary to what mothers do, but is by all indications, important in its own right."

  There can be no better tribute to a parent than to have their child do well in school, to meet their potential, to respect others, and to ultimately be productive members of society. Most importantly, they are our next generation of parents — fathers and mothers should work together to prepare them for that role.

  *Taken from "Parent Guide: Children Do Come With Directions," published by Success by 6, page 78-79.

   

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   Additional Articles and Resources

  Dad's Top Ten Tips on Bonding With Baby

  Boot Camp for New Dads

  — Non-profit organization which was formed in 1988 and has emerged as the nation's preeminent information resource for new dads.

  The National Center for Fathering

  — This site is dedicated to all men who seek to be better dads. The goal is to meet men's need for ideas, information, and resources on fathering.  Provides an extensive listing of online resources and extensive articles covering almost any "fathering situation" (new dads, adoptive dads, stepdads, single dads, long-distance dads, etc.).

  The National Fatherhood Initiative

  — NFI’s mission is to improve the well-being of children by increasing the proportion of children growing up with involved, responsible, committed fathers by educating and inspiring all Americans, especially fathers, through public awareness campaigns, research, and other resources.

  DADS (Dads Advocating for Dads)

  — Designed especially for fathers and families of children with special needs. This site also includes a section for providers and others on making sure they are being "father friendly." This is key in providing medical and educational services to unlocking supports for all family members. (Some articles available in Spanish.)