The Gift of Presence, Why Father’s Matter

We salute involved dads and recognize their tremendous benefit to their children’s lives. Research shows that engaged fathers positively impact their children in very significant ways and while we certainly recognize and appreciate the vital role of moms, involved fathers provide unique benefits that contribute to their children’s physical, emotional, social, and mental well-being.

According to The Art of Manliness, Dads typically have a more outward-facing orientation while mothers tend to focus on the intimate, nurturing aspects of home life, fathers think more about their children’s place in the wider world.”

Their website states that “typically dads teach their children things like riding a bike, exploring the world, and taking risks. They roughhouse with younger children and teach teens “the skills they’ll need to survive and thrive in the world beyond the bounds of the familial home.” As their children mature and face adulthood, a father’s instinct is to teach survival skills like defending themselves, making connections, and earning a living. Boys are less likely to be violent and more likely to have their masculinity affirmed. They also learn how to channel their aggressiveness healthily when their dad is involved in their lives.1

An involved Dad is just as important for daughters. All For Kids website states girls with engaged dads enjoy healthier relationships with boys and men as they mature into adulthood because they learn how men who are respectable and caring act. Father engagement also reduces psychological issues and depression in girls and young women.

Recently, the National Fatherhood Institute listed 8 important benefits of an involved father.

Better Able to Control Emotions – An emotionally regulated father models resiliency and emotional control. “Children with involved dads are four times less likely to have a mood disorder (like depression or anxiety).”

Better Physical Health – Dads engage in physical activities with their children and teach the importance of exercise.

Healthier Relationships – Dads who understand healthy relationships steer their children toward healthy relationships and help them make positive decisions with their friends, family members, and partners.

Feel Safer and More Confident – Fathers want their children to be prepared for the outside world, so they encourage independence and confidence. Children feel safer and are less likely to be physically abused.

Less Likely to Use and Abuse Alcohol and Drugs – Connection with a father who chooses not to abuse drugs and alcohol teaches children not to use and abuse these substances.

Do Better in School – A father’s engagement affects their learning. They perform better academically and are more likely to join extracurricular activities. They also have fewer discipline problems and enjoy school more.

Less Likely to Be Poor – Children with dads who are around are four times less likely to live in poverty.

More Likely to Stay Out of Trouble – “When a dad is present, children are less likely to commit a crime and less likely to go to prison.”3

Dads, You Have an Impact

Dads – it’s important that you interact with your children regularly. Tell stories and show genuine interest in their lives by asking questions and being present. Have meals as a family (without devices!), participate in physical activities and games together and show up to their events. Celebrate their achievements and empathize when they suffer physical or emotional hurt.

We know it’s not easy, especially with different family dynamics, but it’s worth the effort!

The following sources were used for this article: 1. The Dad Instinct: How Fathers Prepare Kids for the Wider World 2. Why Fatherhood Engagement Matters, 3. 8 Ways an Involved Father Helps His Child

We can’t do it alone!

Help us make sure that our youth are properly equipped to make healthy choices NOW so that they can go on to lead happy, successful lives later. Let’s change the face of the community today!

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