Fatherhood is very important for completeness when it comes to the full and normal development of children. While many dads relinquish most of the parental bonding between themselves as parents and their children to the mothers, there are still fathers in the world today who value, support and practice bonding with their children past the newborn period.
Children need to be able to look to fathers as well as to mothers for information, security, knowledge, wisdom, correction and values which can serve as building blocks for their futures.
Dad, when was the last time you spent some quality bonding time with your child?
Will your son or daughter be able to someday look back over enjoyable as well as educational bonding times with you as parent?
Thousands of fathers all over the world, for whatever reason, from day to day know hardly anything about their child's health status, unlike many mothers. Communication between mother and father about a child's health is often brief or non-existent. This stands in the way of opening channels for future health related dialogues between child and the father.
Dad, what type of male example have you been for your daughter who one day will be in search of a husband who will provide for her and make her feel secure?
Dad, what type of example have you been to your son who one day will seek to find that wife, needing a healthy, knowledgeable provider bringing security, stability and completeness to her life?
In relation to health issues, dad, have you taken the time to talk to your children about the dangers of smoking cigarettes, chewing tobacco, alcohol, drug use and the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases and becoming parents too soon?
It is not too late, dad, start today! Get involved with your child's health and well-being!
Fathers needing help in this area may contact our office for support at (740) 393-9111 or email Dr. Bell at Charles.Bell@KnoxCommHosp.org.