Oman parenting: Why children need their daddy?

We know that there are some fathers who think that raising the child is primarily the concern of the mother. After all she is the primary caregiver, isn’t she? Especially for infants, fathers rarely venture into the mother’s territory for fear of doing something wrong or because they believe their presence is not that critical at that point. Studies across the world have shown that the presence of a father in a child’s life is irreplaceable. There is a reason why a child is raised ideally by two parents rather than one. Each one brings something different to the table and complements each other, thereby giving the child a more conducive childhood.

Here’s why daddy is matchless:
• Children whose fathers play an active role right from infancy are seen to be more socially adept, have better grades, and have more achievements.
• Infants, whose fathers handle them more are seen to be more emotionally secure and calm tend to be more explorative and curious.
• Fathers bring more excitement, and unpredictability into their interactions with their children, especially toddlers. Children love these special moments shared with their fathers.
• For teenagers a father’s presence keeps them away from predators and bad influences. Girls whose fathers are actively involved in their lives are seen to have lesser issues with their peers. While boys model their father’s behaviour to a large extent.
• A father’s presence is conducive to higher IQs and less behavioural problems. Girls are seen to have higher self-esteem and boys show less aggression, impulsiveness, and more self-direction.
• Dads need to be more involved in everyday activities and not just one-off things like a yearly holiday. They need to lend a hand in disciplining the child as well. Studies show that fathers tend to have a firmer hand when it comes to discipline.
• Children need stability and predictability. Fathers bring that balance into their lives. Fathers are more than just parents — they are role-models, coaches, mentors, and teachers for their offspring.
• Dads encourage competition and instil confidence in their children to try out new things and push the boundaries. While they are protective they also help nudge the child out of the comfort zone.
• Fathers cloak the family in a mantle of security and dependability, which is very important for normal childhood and adulthood.
So, calling all fathers out there — Remember parenting is a team-sport. Your wife may be a Super-Mom but she cannot replace you. There are some things that children can only learn from their dads.
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