From the beginning of my day home, the dynamics of parental involvement have evolved, and naturally fathers are a big part of this.
It was more commonplace for me to see mothers at the door versus fathers. Mothers would pick up the children, provide schedules, and so on. Although dads were always included in daycare correspondence, the majority would say, “Talk to the wife” or “Ask their mother.” But that has changed.
Times have changed. Now more than ever, fathers are asking the questions and being more proactive in their children’s day. Fathers are becoming more involved in the daily activities at the daycare center as well. Recently, a father asked me how he could be a more positive role model for his children. His questions involved finding positive ways to show emotions and discouraging excessive “screen time.” I have never had a father ask that before. It is an honor to share my knowledge and resources with any parent. Children view both parents equally, and it is refreshing to see the responsibilities being split so well. I do not minimize the positive effects of active involvement from either parent.
Children notice more than we think they do. One of the children at my daycare was talking to me the other day about how much his daddy hugs his mommy, and it made him feel loved to see that. I cannot stress enough the importance of teaching children emotional regulation through our own actions. Additionally, when both parents acknowledge and show approval of the daycare’s rules, it solidifies the ease of implementing them.
Fathers have become undervalued commodities, even though the pendulum is changing regarding the daily roles of each parent. Children are talking more about the activities and time spent with their fathers. The family unit is always a priority, with a focus on spending quality time together. Individual time, i.e. Dad with child, Mom with child, is also important. Moreover, parents proudly talk about giving their spouses the “weekend off” with respect, rather than grudgingly. This strengthens their family bond and showcases a more equal home life. The more engaged fathers are with their children, the more confidence and sociability develop, helping children become more resilient to stress.
In my previous blog titled “Chocolate Cereal,” I shared a humorous moment involving a father. This day served as an eye-opener for that family. The father didn’t realize the amount of work and organization required to get their children ready for the day. Although he was a great father, his job typically had him gone before the morning rush started. From that day on, the responsibilities of the morning became a shared task. The father started dropping off or picking up the children regularly. The children were thrilled to share their day with both parents equally. I loved observing how the family dynamics evolved and how the children blossomed due to this loving change.
Now more than ever, when asking a family question or scheduling, I hear responses like, “We will discuss it soon and get back to you as soon as possible.” (By the way, if you need assistance with scheduling and figuring out who’s doing what and want to support the blog, you can check out a recommended day planner through our affiliate link to the side.)
It is important to understand that fathers have always tried, in one way or another, to be critical parts of the daycare family. Society tends to minimize the parental strengths of fathers and the unique role they play in children’s lives, despite a growing body of research showing otherwise. To truly prioritize children’s well-being means also prioritizing fathers.