WHY FATHERS CHANGE EVERYTHING (FOR THE BETTER)

THIS HAPPY FATHER'S DAY MESSAGE IS FOR YOU IF YOU:

1) Are a Dad
2) Are a Dad of children with Disabilities
3) Are a son caring for your parents or grandparents
4) Are a Dad whose son or daughter is caring for you
5) Are a Dad whose wife is caring for you
6) Are a single Mom who does double duty as a Dad

WHY FATHERS ARE SO IMPORTANT

According to Dr. Gail Gross who writes for the Huffington Post, it is impossible to over-estimate the importance of dads. For example, girls who have good relationships with their fathers tend to do better in math, and boys who have actively involved fathers tend to have better grades and perform better on achievement tests. And well-bonded boys develop securely with a stable and sustained sense of self. Who we are and who we are to be, we are becoming, and fathers are central to that outcome.

 Research indicates that fathers are as important as mothers in their respective roles as caregivers, protectors, financial supporters, and most importantly, models for social and emotional behaviour. In fact, a relatively new structure that has emerged in our culture is the stay-at-home dad. 

Today, a new report on dads and caregiving was released, just in time for Father's Day. Apparently men want to do more caring, but can't because of work and stigma. Insufficient paid leave and the worry about others' perceptions if they prioritize caring over work were the barriers to caring more. 

There are many pressures on families today. I hope that future generations will prioritize caring over work and I hope that fathers will continue to be supported in their critical role as nurturers. Happy Father's Day!