As your child grows, the role of the father and partner doesn’t lose its importance; rather, it changes, develops, and gains new dimensions in the relationship with your child. Many fathers feel more at ease interacting with an older child, so if you feel the same, now is the time when you, as a dad, can truly shine. If you have so far shared childcare equally with your partner and been involved in your child’s life, you are already strongly connected with your child, and the period ahead is simply a continuation and strengthening of that good relationship where the whole family grows together.
Even if you haven’t been actively present and involved in your child’s life until now, it’s not too late to take on an active role in your child’s and family’s life and make an effort to develop and nurture your bond and attachment with your child. Sometimes dads find it challenging to create opportunities to spend time with their children, but it’s very important to make an effort to be actively involved in family life and present during your child’s upbringing. At first, this might mean taking on some daily childcare tasks, going for a walk, or telling a bedtime story. Over time, with a little effort, every dad will find his place.
Balancing family life with all the other everyday demands can be challenging, but it is not impossible. If a father wants to remain (or become) an important figure in their child’s life, be involved in their upbringing, and help build a strong and close relationship, the following tips may be helpful.
1. Continue your bedtime ritual (or start one)
Bedtime is an ideal moment to create routines that help you connect with your child and deepen your existing bond. Help your child with their bedtime routine, offer a massage before sleep, dance a goodnight dance holding your child (while they’re still light enough). Read or tell bedtime stories using different voices for the characters. Create a calming game or activity to make part of your nightly routine together.
2. Physical contact remains an important way to connect with your child
Physical contact enables immediate connection and emphasises your presence. Sometimes dads forget that even the simplest, firm hug has a healing effect and deepens the feeling of closeness for both father and child. Whenever you can, take some time for hugs and kisses.
3. Talk
Even if you don’t have much time, set aside moments to talk with your child. As they grow, communication is very important for staying involved in your child’s life. Sharing thoughts, experiences, and feelings nurtures the bond you have with your child and allows you to really get to know them.
4. Take part in physical activities together
Shared physical activities encourage bonding and closeness between father and child. Sharing a love for the same sport and taking part in it together, working on fixing household appliances, toys, or even cars, going for walks, playing ball in the park, cycling—these are just some activities you can enjoy together. Find a hobby you both enjoy and dedicate time to it as a team.
5. Include your child in everyday tasks
Even the most ordinary household chores can become a joint activity and an opportunity for father and child to connect. Besides learning new skills in a fun and close way, the child feels useful and important, which boosts their confidence. By setting an example, a father teaches the child that everyone in the family participates equally in household duties—a vital life lesson.
Extract from the brochure “Be a Dad and Grow with Your Child 3+”, RODA 2021
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