Dads have come along way! 25% of Dads today as opposed to only 2% when you were growing up – are now hands-on Dads! Kids need their Dads.

While Mom still seems to be the primary care-giver – Dad still has a role.

When children enter into our lives – our lives change! If we were to hire three new employees – a plan would be in place to define the role of each and the expectations for each.

This is seldom done in the new family that is formed. Children can put a tremendous strain on a marriage. Mom feels she is doing everything—Dad feels left out.

Quality Time – this is not just a buzz word!
According to Steffen Kraehmer, “Quality time is memorable moments” Quality time heavily depends on the attitude of the parent.

When a child is a mess after attempting to feed himself – you have two choices – become aggravated or grab the camera and capture that picture to show him when he is 14!

Quality time means “living in the moment” and not worrying about consequences or what comes next.

An important point to remember is that quality is not monetary – it does not depend on money – but rather relationship.

Really and truly listening to a child – and not solving their problems for them – provides an example of quality time. The child feels respected and is also given the choice of action.

Quality time is NOT gender based. It is available as a gift from either sex parent.

Establish priorities in your life. Discover what is truly important!

Set some GOALS for what you would like to accomplish with your child. Write them down!

A scheduled trip every other Saturday, an early morning breakfast with just one parent on a weekend morning, playing a favorite game, going for a walk!

Time wasters –
We all have them. Waiting in line, sitting in a restaurant waiting for a table or being at the table waiting to be served. Use these times to talk with your child. Ask them silly questions, invent silly games – utilize the time you do have together. A game kids love and can be played anywhere is, “I Spy”. I spy lady with an ugly coat, I spy a man with glasses, I spy a kitten. These types of little games engage kids and keep you connected – not to mention keeps them occupied!

Moms and Dads should take the time to define what the duties of each will be and be supportive of each other. Too often Mom tends to criticize how Dad does something – leaving Dad feeling like he should just give up.

Please remember above all else, Children are a gift, They pass through your life, They are meant to be enjoyed!”

Editors Note: Virginia Kirby Brown, CSW is co founder of Cherish Your Children, “Proactive Parenting for Professionals.” Email her at info@cherishyourchildren.com
www.CherishYourChildren.com