Fathers are important to babies (1095)

Men today are becoming different kinds of fathers than their fathers were.

Researchers tell us some fathers have always been very involved in the everyday raising of their children. Other fathers in the past were not involved with their children. They often believed child rearing was a woman's job.

Today more and more fathers are taking an active role in raising their children. These fathers not only bring home a paycheck, they also play with baby, feed and change baby, and create a warm, close relationship with baby.

More women work outside the home today than in the past. And men are doing more in-home work, including caring for their children. In some two-parent families, the parents work different shifts so one of them is always at home. By taking care of their children each day, fathers have a chance to form a strong, close bond with them.

Even if fathers don't take on a "houseparent" role while their partners work, they can still create that close bond with their children. Fathers can give each child some special attention each day, paying attention to nothing else, just that child. In this way, a father shows his child she is important to him. Research shows that the more a father is involved, the better a child develops. This holds true for uncles, grandfathers, and other adult males as well, especially when no father is present.

Fathers who try to increase their child-rearing responsibility sometimes feel awkward at first. But, research shows they learn quickly, and they really like it. They like the close feelings and the shared love with their children. Best of all, many fathers think they become better people by making the effort to care for their young children.

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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