Dads

It is hard to state precisely where the process of becoming a father begins: at the moment of the child’s conception?
at the birth of the child? or when the baby is first planned? The vagueness of the father’s relationship to the child -
and of his rights to the child while in the womb - mirrors the vagueness of  the father’s role in general and is probably
independent of the father’s marital or residential status.

                                                                          
Six ways to be a Better Dad


1. BEING A ROLE MODEL

As a dad, you are a role model whether you realise it or not. How you act teaches your kids how to act when they grow
up. For example, if you talk problems through, your kids will probably grow up to do the same. If you lose your temper,
get abusive or become violent, your kids will probably grow up to do the same.

• Kids learn mainly from what you do, not what you say.
• Treat your children with love and respect so they grow up expecting to be treated the same .
• Teach your children to be caring and treat everyone with respect.

2. SHOW THEM YOU CARE 

Getting involved in your kids’ lives is a terrific way to show your kids you care.

• Do things that they want you to do.
• Give them a hug and tell them they’re great.
• Help out with their homework.
• Play footy or basketball. Why not dress up the dolls and learn to bake and cook.?
• Go to a school function, go to parent / teacher interviews, get involved in their activities..
• Learn their friends and teachers names.

3. WORK AND FAMILY

Let’s face it, work can be tiring, stressful, and create worries. No doubt these worries are for real, but it isn’t fair or
useful to pass them on to your kids.

• Put aside some time just for you to recharge your batteries.
• Look after your health through diet and exercise.
• Try and leave your work hassles at work.

4. WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR KID’S BEHAVIOUR IS NOT O.K.

Set rules and stick to them. Be clear about what will happen when the rules are broken. This could include not letting
your kids watch their favourite TV program. If they break the rules, do what you said would happen.

• As hard as it is, try and stay calm!
• When you feel stressed and feel that you might lash out - walk away.
• Leave the room and do something to distract yourself.
• Don’t act in anger or you will probably regret what you do.
• Kids need to learn right from wrong.

5. PARENTING AND PARTNERSHIPS

Being a parent is a partnership - whether you and your children’s mother are together or not.

• Respect the other parent..
• Don’t argue in front of the kids.
• Do something about relationship problems.
• Get professional advice if you can’t sort out problems together.
• Kids can’t cope with their parents putting each other down.

6. SPEND TIME WITH YOUR KIDS

The time you spend with your kids is a good investment in their future. Show your love by getting involved with their
sports or hobbies or involving them in your interests. Kids grow up so quickly, so don’t miss out!

• Share a regular meal.
• Talk to your kids.
• Listen to their views without criticising.
• Praise their efforts.
• Encourage them and help them make decisions. 

Whatever else you do, be warm and loving. Communicte. Verbally and Emotionally