Notes from Nana

a legacy of faith, wisdom, and love

Day Eleven- Dads Are Important, Too!

Posted 12 years ago by Laurel

Dad, Daddy, Da-da, Papa, Pop, Pa, Father… no matter what name you call him, he is an incredibly important partner in the parenting team.  Unfortunately, over the past several years, there has been a steady decline in the value of fathers in our society.  Dads as characters in television shows and movies are often portrayed as incompetent or even unnecessary.  Men are frequently referred to as “sperm donors” who have no other real function when it comes to raising children.  What a sad situation we are in, especially since this was not God’s design.

God’s plan is for children to have both a mother and a father who are present for more than just conception.  Why do they need both?  Because mothers and fathers each provide for the needs of their children in different and unique ways. One isn’t more important than the other; rather, they both contribute to the overall health and well-being of their children.

Numerous studies have demonstrated that children with involved fathers perform better academically and in social situations.  Dads are highly influential when it comes to teaching their kids (both sons and daughters) how to have good relationships.  They instruct and encourage their children to be independent.  Dads help develop strong character traits and can inspire their kids to pursue a meaningful relationship with God.

Much has been said over the years about “women’s intuition” and the innate connection that moms have with their children.  But I strongly believe that dads also have insight and wisdom regarding their own kids.  The balanced perspective that comes from having both parents involved in the process is incredibly valuable.

Unfortunately, there are many families where dads simply aren’t that involved.  They might even be completely out of the picture.  God bless the thousands of single moms who are struggling to provide for and be everything to their kids.  These strong, brave women raise great kids often in the face of extreme difficulty.   And let’s not forget all of those single dads who are also working hard to care for their families.  All of these single parents  deserve our love and support.    

Yes, dads are important and need to be appreciated for the valuable role they play in their children’s lives.  Let’s show some gratitude for daddies today!