Holiday Greeting – What is a Father’s Role?
Modern dads are a diverse bunch. They may go to work or stay at home with the kids. They may be single, married, or dating. They may be birth parents, adoptive parents, or step-parents.1 They may be expected to teach children morals and values, offer emotional support, enforce discipline, and/or provide financial support.2
The most important responsibility dads have, according to the American Psychological Association, is family involvement. “…Research across families from all ethnic backgrounds suggests that fathers’ affection and increased family involvement help promote children’s social and emotional development.”1
So, what helps fathers get involved and stay involved? As it turns out, paternity leave does! The Economist reported paternity leave has three key benefits:3
1. Fathers who take leave after a child is born take an active role in childcare.
2. Early interactions with Dad have long-term learning benefits for children.
3. It’s good for wives’ careers.
While it may be too late to petition for paternity leave for your dad, there are other ways to celebrate the wonderful things he has brought into your life. Whatever you decide to do, he’s sure to appreciate the gesture.
If you’re providing care for either or both of your parents, please let us know. Caregiving can play an important role in financial plans.
Sources:
1 http://www.apa.org/pi/families/resources/changing-father.aspx
2 http://www.pewsocialtrends.org/2013/06/14/the-new-american-father/
3 http://www.economist.com/blogs/economist-explains/2015/05/economist-explains-18
The above material was prepared by Peak Advisor Alliance.
