Being a dad – the importance of relationship
Dads are critically important for their child's development. They should take an everyday interest in what their child is doing.
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Being a dad
In this short YouTube clip(external link), Latu To‘omaga talks to Vicky Ellison about the many pressures on kids, how important it is to be an involved dad and the importance of giving it your ‘all’.
Dads matter
In Dads matter, we encourage dads to get involved early in their baby’s life to make sure their relationships gets off to a good start. Research says that the earlier they connect with their baby, the better it is for building strong and lasting relationships.
Parents learn about parenting from how they were parented. Dads learn what sort of dads to be from their own fathers. With this sort of information, dads might like to ask themselves, 'What sort of dad will my son be? What is he learning about being a father from me?'
As well as dads, there are many male role models in our whānau and community like older brothers, uncles, cousins, youth leaders, teachers and coaches. Good male role models help young males to become great men and help young women know what a good relationship is with men.
Rich learning
By sharing everyday experiences with children, we are providing opportunities for relationship building and valuable learning for them.
Parents can often share and enjoy different experiences with their children, and this is a great way for them to develop individual connections with their kids.
Great fathers
Ordinary men make great fathers. Have a look at the Great Fathers website(external link), which has lots of ideas for growing great dads.
Helpful resources for whānau
