10 Ways to Be a Better Dad
Spend Time with Your Children
Missed
opportunities are forever lost.
Earn the Right to Be Heard
Take time and listen to your child s ideas and
problems.
Discipline with Love
All children need guidance and
discipline, not as punishment, but to set reasonable limits. Remind your
children of the consequences of their actions and provide meaningful rewards for
desirable behavior.
Be a Role Model
"All the world's a stage..." and a father plays one of
the most vital roles.
Be a Teacher
Too many fathers think teaching
is something others do. But a father who teaches his children about right and
wrong, and encourages them to do their best, will see his children make good
choices. Involved fathers use everyday examples to help their children learn the
basic lessons of life.
Eat Together as a Family
Sharing a meal
together can be an important part of healthy family life.
Read to Your Children
In a world where television often dominates the lives of
children, it is important that fathers make the effort to read to their
children.
Show Affection
Showing affection everyday is the best way to let your
children know that you love them.
Realize that a Father's Job Is Never
Done
Even after children are grown and ready to leave home,
they will still look to their fathers for wisdom and advice.
Respect Your Children's Mother
When
children see their parents respecting each other, they are more likely to feel
that they are also accepted and respected.
First,
the good news
Children
with involved fathers:
Have stronger self-esteem
Are less susceptible to peer pressure
Show increased empathy
Show increased cognitive competence
Journal of Marriage and Family
Now
the bad news
The
consequences of inaction:
On average, fatherless children score lower on tests and have lower grade
point averages.
Fatherless children are more likely to commit crimes and engage in
substance abuse.
Attributes
of a successful father
Confidence
and pride.
Patience and a better sense of
humor.
Flexible
thinking.
Return to
childhood.
Creativity.
Reordering
priorities.
Changing
values.
T
Involve yourself in their lives
Mentor
Enjoy