Parenting is
definitely not just a mom’s job. While it is a common notion that mothers seem
to slide into the role of parenting more naturally than fathers, kids need both
the caring, nurturing style that moms can give and the challenging and
practical parenting technique that is inherent to most fathers.
Rather than
trying to “perfect” our partner’s parenting ways, we should rather encourage
and support them into being the best father they can be:
1.
Challenging kids to be problem solvers
When our
little ones seem to be struggling to put something together or if our tiny
toddler suddenly falls down, moms often come to the rescue. But dad’s style is all about challenging our
kids to cope with the real world and allowing them to work through their
problems. There’s nothing wrong with
helping our kids, of course, but there are times when dad’s way provides better
opportunities for kids to learn to be on their own. Once in a while, it’s also
rewarding to watch our little ones discover how to assemble their toys by
themselves or seeing them get up and go. This way, our kids will learn to value
their sense of accomplishment and independence.
2. Being
spontaneous and fun
With all the
responsibilities and multitasking demands of motherhood, having a proper
routine and schedule often works for us.
Dads, on the
other hand, are more spontaneous and flexible when it comes to parenting. They are more willing to let kids be messy at
times, transforming a normally boring chore into play, or perhaps even allowing
kids to extend their playtime once in a while and coming up with a “spur of the
moment” kind of activity.
While
routines and planned schedules are highly important, unplanned games,
activities or even occasional breaks from the usual chores can allow moms and
kids some time for fun as well. Learning from dads, it’s okay to act like a
child at times and simply enjoy the moment.
3. Telling
it like it is
Dads tend to
be more direct when they talk to their kids. Sometimes, this may seem like they
are being too tough and uncaring, but that’s just how dads are – they tell it
like it is. Dads are more
straightforward in explaining possible consequences, which teaches us moms to
be firm when the situation calls for it.
4. Letting
kids take risks
Moms can be
overprotective at times, especially when their kids are just starting to
explore. On the other hand, dads are risk-takers, in the sense that they let
their kids try out a new activity because they see it as an opportunity to
learn and build up their confidence – like trying to ride a bike for the first
time or even climbing the stairs. While
it’s important to take all the necessary precautions, allowing our kids space
to explore and learn will be beneficial to their growth as well. It’s all a
matter of being discerning when it’s okay to let go and allow them be on their
own.
5. Trusting
your partner’s instincts
Moms tend to
be emotional when it comes to parenting, while dads are more rational. No
matter what, it is important to have an appreciation of our different parenting
styles and trust that we both know what’s best for our kids regardless of how
we do it.
A father’s
role in the lives of our children is truly essential to their well-being. As
their partners, we need to be appreciative of how they fulfill their roles
despite our differences. There’s so much to learn from each other -- what is
important is that we work together for the sake of our children.
By: Samantha
Catabas Manuel
Photo
Credit: Google Images
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