A Daddy’s Guide To Bonding Better With Children
Although the father plays a significant role in a family, it is more passive than that of a mother. Typically, American dads do not get to spend much time with the kids because of work, lifestyle, and other reasons. Some feel guilty about it, and others take it as a part of life. Moreover, bonding with kids is a tad tougher for men because they aren’t born with a mother’s instinct. If you are struggling to give time to your children through their growing years, you need to make extra efforts. Thankfully, you can make some conscious choices to bond better with your children. Here is a daddy’s guide to help.
Bond early
Although men in the U.S. have come a long way in sharing household duties over the years, childcare is an aspect where they are still lacking. Bonding early is crucial if you want a strong relationship with your offspring. Be there with your partner as she wakes through the nights during the early years. Hold the baby because physical contact fosters love and care. Participate in daily activities like bathing, diapering, feeding, and taking the little out for a walk. Spending quality time with kids makes them feel secure as they grow up.
Nurture the relationship over time
As children grow, they become independent and do not need your help with their activities. But dads, like moms, have to be there to nurture the relationship over time. Step into the child’s shoes and understand the age-specific expectations and problems they may be going through. Learning to listen and be patient is another aspect where men need to emulate women as these traits can take you a long way in strengthening your bond with the child over the growing years.
Travel together
A lack of quality time is the biggest woe that American dads face when it comes to fostering healthy relationships with kids. It can be challenging when work keeps you out for a good part of the day. Traveling together is the best way to address this challenge. You can even plan a solo trip with your teen, but make sure that you book a vacation rental to get the time and space you need. Check out Ocean City, NJ vacation rentals as they offer the privacy and all amenities you expect. You can bond with the child by cooking together, exploring the place, and relaxing outdoors in the evening.
Make the child feel significant
Men aren’t born or raised to understand emotions, but these are the qualities you need to cultivate after embracing parenthood. Open up your emotional side and give your kids all the attention, love, and care they deserve. Making the child feel significant goes a long way in fostering a strong bond. Have rules and boundaries but be willing to relax them at times. Let the kids know that they can trust you, no matter what, and you will be there for them even when they make mistakes.
Bonding with your children as a father can be a life-changing experience. Just go the extra mile, and you can be a great dad!