TIPS For Families

Being involved in all aspects of parenting is important part of being an involved father. Some fathers are more comfortable with teaching, playing with, or even disciplining their child because they see these activities as what a father is supposed to do. However, research clearly shows that fathers who are involved in all phases of their child's care are happier as a parent and have healthier, more successful children.

For many dads, being involved in such a broad range of activities takes a serious commitment. It means being willing to feed and diaper as well as play and problem-solve. Being an involved father means packing a lunch box or attending a parent-teacher conference as well as cleaning a bicycle and going shopping. It means being willing to share in all parts of your child's life.

Doing more care-taking activities (e.g., diapering, dressing, bathing, etc.) seems a little unnatural for some fathers, at least at first. When they do it a little more, dads almost always find that it's worthwhile-they see these actions improving their relationship with their child.

If you wish to leave feedback about this TIPS for Families, click on the TIPS Feeback Form below.  For more information on Fathering go to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln publication website at www.ianrpub.unl.edu and click on Families.