Many Fathers Help Children Develop and Grow in a Family

Of all of the influential men in a child’s life, the father generally has the more difficult time with the transition from baby to child and child to teen.  It can be difficult to help your child through these stages of life, when you are at odds with them yourself.  The best thing that a dad can do is to remember to talk to and listen to their kids.  As they grow, their dad is one of their most valuable allies in this world.  However, even dads can’t do it alone; parents need help too.

A grandfather has a very unique position within the family, he not only has years of experience in relating to his own sons and daughters, but he also sees grandchildren from a different perspective than that of the father.  A grandfather can be a great friend to a grandchild, taking grandsons fishing and granddaughters to the park. It is important that the parents and grandfathers be on the same page, that they communicate with one another to avoid sending mixed messages to the children. 

Dad’s friends, uncles and godfathers are also good for children in this age group to have in their lives.  These men play a different role for the children, they are more like friends and in some cases, even peers.  Kids tend to have an easier time talking about issues with an uncle than their dad or grandpa, this is especially true for girls. 

One of the simplest things that a man can do for the children in his life is to affirm his love and appreciation of them. 

There are many ways in which this can be done, but the simplest, and often most effective, way is to write an "I Treasure You" note to the child.  This can be a quick note left in a lunch box or on an "I Treasure You" note card stationery and mailed.  Either way, the effect that receiving such a letter will have on the child is immeasurable. These types of letters lift the self-esteem of a child in a way that nothing else can. 

As a father, it is vital to realize that you do not have to be, nor are you expected to be the sole male in your child’s life.  You have a community of men in your family who are willing and able to help you set your child on the right path as well as to keep them there. These men are valuable to you and your children use them and cherish them.