Before we get to the tips you must first understand what it really means to be a good father. One of the most important qualities of a good father is that they are always capable of putting their family, and especially their children, before themselves. In addition, you need to be a positive role model, as well as be able to protect your children from harm. But most importantly, you need to be someone your children can always depend on – a friend they respect, love, and a shoulder they can always rely on for support and care when they need you most. However, to achieve this, you need to nurture your relationship with them, build trust, and truly earn a place for yourself in their hearts. These ten tips will go a long way in helping you get there.
Truly Value and Enjoy Each Other’s Company
The essence of a happy family is that each member truly uplifts each other. This comes down to how each member treats the other. Lead by example here shows that you really care about your kids and their stories, no matter how silly they may be. Find opportunities to spend time with them, try to share some joy and interest in their hobbies and if possible, get actively involved in it. In fact, even something as simple as showing joy and happiness when they come home can go a long way.
Share your stories and encourage them to do the same
Find time when you get home from work to catch up with your kids. Ask them about their day, share some details of yours. Another great opportunity to do this is at dinner. Try and get everyone to have dinner together, and actively encourage the family to share their stories. This builds communication and trust. This will definitely put you in the good father trait.
Keep your time at work in check
Children whose fathers are nearly always at work can develop feelings of insecurity where they feel they aren’t important enough for you. This can have adverse effects on their mental well-being in the long run. Make sure to always balance out your time and prioritise your relationship with your kid’s overwork. If id you work away from your family, even making time for a daily video call can go a long way. Also, whenever possible keep your work at work; avoid bringing it home with you.
Schedule regular family vacations
Try and make it a point to take your vacation with your family annually. It is also worthwhile to sit down with the entire family when discussing and planning your family vacations. Make sure to take everyone’s input into account, including your kids, and try to make it happen.
Play with the family weekly
“Families that play together, stay together” may just be a common saying, but it isn’t without merit. Studies have clearly shown that families who make time to have fun together report feeling closer, more satisfied, and more mentally healthy. Therefore, it would be worthwhile for a good father to take the initiative and set aside a couple of hours every weekend to play with your entire family, or even just your children.
Learn to be flexible and adapt
Learn to be flexible with your kids and adapt your behaviour as they grow older. This is easier said than done, however. To do so, you must first understand that a family is dynamic; it keeps changing and kids eventually grow. When they are young, make sure they learn from their mistakes. Be understanding and realise that sometimes the outcome of the mistake is all the punishment they would ever need. As they grow older make sure you treat them as such. Learn to respect their privacy and age.
Learn to communicate better
Being able to communicate openly and effectively is a sign of trust and respect within a family. This is not something that can happen overnight. It must be earned. Encourage your children to talk to you about anything, and when they do show them the understanding, flexibility, respect, and privacy they, as well as the issue they are discussing, deserves. Help them with their it whenever possible and show that you genuinely care. Eventually, they will begin to be more open with you.
Never fight in front of the kids
This is a no brainer, but it deserves to be said. While some fighting or bickering between you and your significant other may be inevitable, try to keep it away from the children. If they do see you doing so, make them understand that disagreements are normal, having conversations are healthy. However, no arguments or discussions about your children should ever be had in front of them.