Fathers, you have a special place in their children’s lives. Children whose fathers take an active part in their daily lives tend to be more well-adjusted and better equipped for success. It’s not easy being a father, but don’t think that they aren’t as important as the mother. Roles may not always be the same, but parental interest in children can make a significant difference. .
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- Give your children hugs and kisses often; children need physical comfort and contact from their fathers.
- Tell them how much they mean to you, “You’re really important to me.”
- Praise their efforts, especially if they don’t succeed; teach them the importance of doing their best.
- Give your children rules and make sure your rules are clear to them; don’t say “maybe” when you mean “no.”
- Explain your rules; it’s important that children understand why they need to follow those rules.
- Be consistent with your rules; children get confused when you seem to change your mind without any reason.
- Use effective discipline to help children develop self-control; set limits and encourage children to feel good about them.
- Look directly at your children when they talk to you.
- Gain your children’s trust by listening to them when they come to you with a problem.
- Be honest with your children; admit your mistakes and teach your children the importance of taking responsibility and making amends.
- Tell your children that they can come to you with any questions; otherwise they may receive inappropriate answers from other people.
- Remember that you are your children’s role model; they are looking to you to learn how a responsible and mature adult acts.
- Do household chores with your children; make them feel good about helping you and teach them that fathers also share household duties.
- Encourage your children to think for themselves; guide and help them with their decision making process.
Provided by Prevent Child Abuse America
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