Dad matters: Why father-and-child relationships are important

Fatherhood does not stop in procreation. In fact, it is the start of a long journey full of challenges. Stereotypes about (young) fathers exist until today. People think they are immature, lacking compassion, or downright lazy. However, fathers play a very important role in the development of their children. Here’s why.
 

Image source: pinterest.com

Fathers are a figure of discipline and care. 

Children who have an excellent relationship with their fathers are less likely to rebel when they’re older. They know that their fathers are watching over them, and they dislike the thought of disappointing their parents. Children with involved fathers also have a higher sense of self-esteem and good academic achievement.  

Fathers influence relationships. 

 Ever heard of the term “daddy issues?” Women who did not have a great father figure while growing up sometimes end up looking for attention from someone who treated them like their father—abusive or disinterested. Men who grew up without fathers are most likely to be abusive or looking for multiple partners. However, those who experienced the love of their fathers value relationships more. Women will look for a partner with the same traits like their father, and men will treat their family with care and respect. 

Fathers bring encouragement to their children 

While having a mother is something that should not be overlooked, the involvement of the father encourages the child to do better. Dads encourage their kids through play, stories, and even just their mere presence. The fact that children know their dads are around gives them courage and faith that is immeasurable.   

Image source: fathers.com

Hi, I’m Alpman Ilker. I may have worn different hats in this lifetime, but my favorite is being a father to my kids, Sarah and Tom. Read more about fatherhood by visiting this blog.

Some Great Suggestions To Spice Up Family Night

It’s the little things that count.  This applies to almost everything but has particular importance in family nights.  The routine can be draining, so parents should try spicing it up a little.  Just a little change here and there can make a ton of difference. Listed below are a few suggestions:



Camp inside:  If this sounds crazy, then it’s worth it.  Most parents dread the camping experience because of the dirt and the outdoor setup.  There is an alternative: camping in the living room. Children are not particularly interested in where their camps are; it’s more of the experience that matters to them.  Parents can drag out sleeping bags or line a tent with fairy lights.  Doing this inside the home also has the added advantage of being near a toilet and having ready access to food.

Image Source: thechoppingblock.com

Listen and draw:  Try listening to audio books together with your family.  While the story is being dictated, children can draw individually about what they "see."  Not only will this get them to concentrate but makes them remember the story better.  Children who grow up with books are often reported to do better in school.



Cooking night:  If there is movie night, there can be a cooking night.  Children love to get their hands dirty, and this is a fun way for them to have fun while doing something productive.   Allocate tasks suitable for your children’s age.

Image Source: momtastic.com

Remember that these family nights shape your child’s future.  They may seem tiresome and stressful at the time, but they are often recalled with loving nostalgia later.



Alpman Ilker considers himself a family man.  As much as he can, he spends time with his wife and children.  For more information, follow him on Twitter.