5 Things Kids Need To See Their Dad Doing

Becoming a father means accepting a world of responsibility.  Dads might not realize that they are signing up to become Superman in their children’s eyes!  Kids see every move you make, and try to mimic them.  Dads have the power to impact and shape their children, even at a young age.  Here are five things that all kids need to see their dad doing for them.

5 Things Kids Need To See Their Dad Doing

Here are 3 bad habits you should kick to be more present at home.

Problem Solving

It’s no secret that children are copycats of their parents – from the way they dress to what they do.  When kids see their fathers solving problems around the house, they learn important step-by-step problem-solving skills.  Whether it be fixing the garbage disposal or explaining a work problem, children get to see their role model take the time to work through something difficult and reach a solution.  

Helping Around The House

Gender roles are a thing of the past.  When Dad pitches in to help around the house and share some of the burden of the stereotypical “mom chores,” it sets a powerful example.  Children should see their dad helping clean the house and cooking dinner because it will help influence the person they become.  They are more likely to follow suit and be more helpful themselves, both as children and when they live on their own one day.  

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Showing Affection

Showing affection for your spouse in front of your children teaches them what a healthy relationship looks like!  Hugging, holding hands, and kissing give children a sense of love and security at home.  When children witness appropriate affection from their parents, they learn how to treat and be treated in all future relationships.  

Spending Quality Time

One of the most critical things fathers can do for their children is get down on their level and play with them!  Even if you are exhausted after a long day of work, taking the time to play a quick game of pirates or pouring a few cups of Kool-aid for “tea time” can make all of the difference.  Playtime with dad, whether it be a whole day or just 15 minutes after dinner, is priceless.

Discipline

Being a firm, but loving, disciplinary figure is an important thing kids need to see their dad doing. It can be tough to say no to your children, but parents should share this burden.  One parent should not be the “fun parent” and indulge the kids with ice cream and gifts while the other parent is left to be the sole disciplinary figure.  

A firm “no” from dad yields respect from your children, and your spouse will thank you. When children experience discipline with love and respect, they learn that although dad does mean business, he does it out of a good place.

Here’s to all of the dads out there!  Thank you for being one of the most influential people in your children’s life and helping shape them to be the leaders of tomorrow.  Is there anything else kids need to see their dad doing? Let us know in the comments!