As I watched the movie with my children, there were the usual suspects: a cute little girl, a dog in a tutu and a father who didn’t know he had a daughter but was about to get his chance at redemption. Throw in some Elvis Presley tunes and competitive professional sports for dramatic effect, and you’ve got one of those fun movies that tugs at your heartstrings while tickling your funny bone.
Throughout the movie, the main character kept saying, “the power of the father.” What started out as a phrase to help him stay focused in his newly discovered role became something more: the belief that a father has the power to give his children something that no one else can.
In a time in history where the Father’s role has been trivialized and downplayed I am here to tell you that the Father is critical to every child. Research has shown us the importance of the father.
Studies show children who have an involved father tend to have higher IQs than those who do not.
On average, fathers who regularly spend one-on-one time with their infants and young children in stimulating, engaging play, teach children how to better regulate their feelings and behaviors
Even a little rough housing with dad has been shown to be extremely beneficial, as it teaches a child how to control aggressive impulses and reel in emotions. No one instills courage to try and try again like a father. A Father has the power to pick you up, dust you off and get you to try again even when you fall down.
Studies again show us that a father who has a good relationship with his wife is more likely to be involved in the lives of his children, with the children more likely to be psychologically and emotionally healthy.
Fathers who treat the mother with respect and deal with conflict in an adult and responsible manner are more likely to have sons who treat women respectfully with less aggression.
Girls who see their fathers treating their mothers in a caring way quickly learn how men should treat them and less likely to become involved in violent or unhealthy relationships.
It is time for dads to think about the important role they play in the lives of their children. Remember, always set aside time to communicate, collaborate, indulge with, play, work and all the other important responsibilities of raising successful, well-adjusted children who will positively contribute to our next generation.
Be better tomorrow because of what you do today!