It is crazy how much the world has changed in the past 15-20 years. The advancements in technology, changes in cultural expectations, the value of money, and on and on and on! One thing that I don’t believe will ever change, though, is the importance of having strong and supportive parents. Yes, plural parents- both mom and dad.
Who raises you and how they raise you shapes you into the person you grow up to be. The lessons you learn, things you experience, and what you see in your household impacts you during the years you live under your parents roof, and for your entire life thereafter.
Mothers carry their babies and form a special bond from the moment of conception. The mother seems to be the one that everyone looks to when complimenting their child's character. We, as a society, almost look past the fathers and assume the mother did all of the raising and character shaping. Many would argue that one parental role is more important than the other, we believe that is simply not true. Mothers are essential in a child's life, but I am here to say that so are the fathers!
When “fathers are affectionate and supportive, it greatly affects a child’s cognitive and social development. It also instills an overall sense of well-being and self confidence.” Studies show that children with good relationships with their fathers are less likely to lie, exhibit destructive behavior, and experience depression.
Fathers play a huge role in a child’s life. Their relationship looks different with their daughters than with their sons. Both daughters and sons need a father. They need their fathers to be present and active in their lives.
Daughter and Father Relationship
Young girls “depend on their fathers for security and emotional support. A father shows his daughter what a good relationship with a man is like.” It is often proven that a girl’s relationship with her father influences her choice in a significant other. When searching for a mate, the daughter will look for character attributes similar to her father’s. Fathers, be a reflection of a man that you would want your daughter to marry.
Son and Father Relationship
For the son, the father becomes a direct model by which the son strives to replicate. Fathers, be a reflection of a man that you would want your sons to become. To a son, there is no one better, stronger, or smarter than their dad. “I’ve Been Watching You” by Rodney Atkins sums up the father-son relationship. In the chorus, he sings what a son said to his father:
“He said I've been watching you dad, ain't that cool
I'm your buckaroo, I wanna be like you
And eat all my food and grow as tall as you are
We got cowboy boots and camo pants
Yeah we're just alike, hey ain't we dad
I wanna do everything you do
So I've been watching you”
Fathers! Your little ones are watching. They will seek your approval early on in life, strive to be like you, and learn habits from you. They are watching the way you treat others, the way you handle difficulties, how you manage finances, and your attitude. They will mimic you and your actions. This is a great and honorable responsibility. Your children love you and are looking to you for guidance. May this be an encouragement that you have such a great opportunity for influence on your beloved children.
The Bluebird supports mothers, fathers, children, babies, and every aspect of life! We believe that families are the foundational structures of society. We want to help strengthen yours! We also know that being a parent is tough. That is why we are here! If you are a mother or father struggling right now, whether it be physically, emotionally, financially, or spiritually, we are here to walk beside you. Please reach out to us today.
Comments