WHY A MALE PRESENCE IN YOUR CHILD'S LIFE MATTERS

Research shows that when fathers actively engage and fulfil their parental role, it can have an even greater impact on a child's life and future. Here’s how

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Research conducted by The Fatherhood Project, a US-based non-profit organisation, reveals that children who have a close relationship with their fathers experience numerous benefits. They are twice as likely to pursue higher education or secure stable employment after high school, 75% less likely to experience teenage pregnancies, 80% less likely to become incarcerated, and have a reduced likelihood of encountering multiple symptoms of depression.

Unfortunately, many children worldwide – particularly in South Africa – grow up without the guidance of father figures. It's crucial for fathers to understand the profound impact they can have on their children's development by merely being present, particularly during their formative years.

The impact of a father figure on child development
The early years of a child’s life are very important for later health and development. Research suggests that, although the brain continues to develop and change into adulthood, the first eight years build a foundation for future learning, health, and life success. Thus, it's important to expose your child to positive male role models as early as possible.

Some of the benefits of the presence of a father (or father figure) include:

Cognitive development: Fathers engage in different types of play and interactions, resulting in enhanced problem-solving skills, improved critical thinking and creativity. They may introduce different perspectives, challenge a child's thinking and encourage intellectual curiosity.

Emotional development: Fathers often bring a different style of nurturing, providing a balance to the child's emotional needs and enhancing their emotional intelligence.

Physical and motor development: Fathers often engage in physical activities, which contribute to the development of a child's motor skills, coordination and physical confidence.

Self-esteem and confidence: Supportive fathers provide encouragement, praise, and guidance, helping children develop a positive self-image and a belief in their abilities.

Gender role development: Fathers play a crucial role in shaping a child's understanding of gender roles and promoting healthy masculinity. They provide a positive male role model, teaching boys about respect, empathy and responsible behaviour, and help girls develop a positive perception of men.

Reduced risk behaviours: As mentioned earlier, father involvement has been linked to lower rates of risk-taking behaviours such as substance abuse, delinquency and early sexual activity. Active father figures provide guidance, establish boundaries and instil values that help children make better choices.

Creating a fatherhood experience when there is no father present
For parents who are in female same-sex relationships, or in cases where a child's father isn't in the picture, creating a fatherhood experience is a little more challenging, but it can still be achieved.

Here are some of the ways you can do this:

Involve male friends, relatives or mentors: Seek out positive male role models such as friends, uncles, and grandfathers for your child to bond with. Encourage your child to spend time with male coaches, teachers, or community leaders as they can provide guidance in specific areas of interest.

Build connections within your community: Look for community groups or organisations that focus on single- or same-sex parenting as they can provide opportunities for your child to interact with kids who have similar family structures.

Seek out male-centred resources: Introduce your child to media that highlights strong male figures, positive values and diverse perspectives as this can help shape your child's understanding of fatherhood and masculinity.

Maintain open and honest communication: Keep an open-door policy with your child about their family structure so you can address any questions or curiosities they may have. This will help them understand and embrace their family's unique dynamics, promoting a positive self-identity.