Someone once said that today’s fathers have little time or nothing to do with their children, much of what they think about is keeping their job and providing for their dream-women. It is important to discover what motivates good fathers in proper paternal relationships.The situation today and that of the past, indicates that religious affiliations tend to have a positive influence on father-child relationships with several factors at play. Through faith-based communities that are known to foster father-child relationship, married couples have actively involved into activities that bring the family together. A recent interview conducted by Askmen.com; a men in relationship internet site, indicates that fathers who adhere to their religious teachings are far less likely to abuse alcohol and other drugs than non-religious fathers. It also indicated that an estimated 80% of child abuse is alcohol related. Such findings show the practical nature of such communities like cells that pay attention to parenting and family life in today’s society. The much religious involvement in them tends to connect men with a broader faith community that “expects” good fathering and this creates positive social pressure to be a good Dad. Parents and children alike are entertained to a rare package by models from all walks of life that encourage, counsel, direct and are there for families that need guidance. Many fathers describe their faith communities or cells as their “Church family.” Fathers motivate their children through having a routine structured timetable of approaching life. Several men have for example been spotted driving with their children to Churches and Mosques; sending a message that all life deserves paying homage to the giver of it. To them, faith and family take priority and so can push the stop button to the world. In fact, the more crazy and fast the pace of life gets, the more important their sacred family time becomes. This is an innovation that such religious cells have offered to families with an exceptional package to make fathers spare more time with their children. Central to sacred motivations and meanings to life are practices so similar among highly religious families across Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. These are families that value their faith and family above all else and are trying to weave both together. Talking about fathers and their relationship with families seems therefore to be an issue that religious communities have come to address. Given such a role cells perform, good fathers have always been motivated by their faith. It is not for nothing that fathers out there need to cultivate time for their spiritual aspect of life together with their children for a responsible fatherhood. As we eye the close the year, many young adults are walking the Isle to publicly confirm their “I do.” As a Dad, being a parent is one of the most rewarding yet challenging jobs one will ever find. There are ways one can cultivate on being the best father: Start early, never stop - Begin your relationship with your children at birth. It is never too early to talk, tickle, caress, kiss, and play with your child – the sooner, the better. Equally important, don’t stop! Showing affection, asking questions, sharing your world, and getting to know your baby – these are the building blocks to a strong relationship with children. Learn the skills - No one is born a Dad or Mom. Your responsibility is to make the time and commit the energy to learn the skills you will need to be a caring, compassionate, and competent Dad. The learning never ends and children are great teachers! Respect your children’s mother - One of the best things a father can do for his children is to respect their mother. If you are married, keep your marriage strong and vital. If you’re not married, it is still important to respect and support the mother of your children. Parents who respect each other provide a secure environment for the children who are more likely to feel that they are also accepted and respected. Spend time with your children - How a father spends his time tells his children what’s important to him. If you’re always too busy for your children, they will feel neglected no matter what you say. Treasuring children often means sacrificing other things, but it is essential to spend time with your children since they grow up so quickly. Earn the right to be heard - All too often the only time a father speaks to his children, is when they have done something wrong. That’s why so many children cringe when their mother says, “Your father wants to talk with you.” So as a father begin talking with your children so they can listen to you in future. Discipline with Love - All children need guidance and discipline, not as punishment, but to set reasonable limits. Remind your children of the consequences of their actions and provide meaningful rewards for desirable behaviour. Fathers who discipline in a calm and fair manner show love for their children. Be a role model and teach by example- Fathers are role models to their children whether they realize it or not. A girl who spends time with a loving father grows up knowing she deserves to be treated with respect by boys, and knows what to look for in a husband. Fathers can teach sons what is important in life by demonstrating honesty, humility and responsibility. Teach by example - If you thought you would never be a teacher, think again! Every Dad is a teacher simply by being in the presence of his child. Your words, expressions and actions have a direct impact on your child right from the start. A father who teaches his children about right and wrong, and encourages them to do their best, will see them make good choices. Read to your children - In a world where television often dominates the lives of children, it is important that fathers make the effort to read to their children. Children learn best by doing and reading, as well as seeing and hearing. Begin reading to your children when they are very young. When they are older encourage them to read on their own. Instilling a reading culture into your children is one of the best ways to ensure they will have a lifetime of personal and career growth. Be realistic - Unrealistic expectations are the source of unnecessary frustration for you and your child. The quicker you can become familiar with what is realistic to expect of your children as they grow, the more you will revel in the joy of the father/child relationship. Show affection - Children need the security that comes from knowing they are wanted, accepted and loved by their family. Showing affection everyday is the best way to let your children know that you love them. Say you’re sorry - Being a Dad is an awesome responsibility and you will make mistakes. Remember, you are not alone – all parents will do things they later would not consider good parenting. Saying “I’m sorry” will help both you and your child in the long run. Eat together as a family – what an important moment of the family to share a meal together (breakfast, lunch or dinner)!!! In addition to providing some structure in a busy day, it gives children the chance to talk about what they are doing and want to do. It is also a good time for fathers to listen and give advice. Most importantly, it is a time for families to be together each day. Faith-based communities have always provided such skills to good fatherhood and family life. A father’s job is never done. Even after children are grown and ready to leave home, they will still look to their fathers for wisdom and advice. Whether it’s continued schooling, a new job or a wedding, fathers continue to play an essential part in the lives of their children as they grow and, perhaps, marry and build their own families.(Additional information from internet) Ends
