Why Fathers Are Important

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A father's role is crucial to a child's growth and has profound bearing on the social, emotional, and intellectual development of a child. Learn the benefits of receiving paternal involvement in a child's upbringing, the characteristics of effective fathers, some common barriers to a father's involvement and ways to overcome them.

Good fathering is hard work, but the most important kind of work men can do. The consistent and frequent presence of a father makes a powerful difference in the development and socialization of a child.

Be prepared, Dad, because your stamina will be tested. Your child seems to have boundless energy—physically, intellectually, socially—and you'll be challenged to keep up. It's an important time for you to establish a healthy pattern of involvement in your child's life.

When you are involved with your son or daughter, you send a clear message to your child: I want to be your father. I am interested in you. I enjoy being with you. You and I have a relationship that is important to me.

Benefits of Dad Involvement

Children who grow up with fathers who stay involved in their lives enjoy all kinds of benefits:

• better school performance
• less trouble with the law
• better jobs and careers
• better relationships with others
• higher self-esteem

Being an involved father supports the development of your kids. Children become just as attached to their fathers as their mothers. Attachment provides a life-long relationship providing a secure base in the world.