Seven ways for Dad’s to spend time with their children and become a great Father in the process.

 

Warwick Marsh, the founder of the Fatherhood Foundation says, “Children spell love time- T-I-M-E”. If we are going to embark on the journey of becoming a great dad, we must find ways as a father to spend more time with our children. Here are some simple ideas.

 

1) Prioritize Your Time.

Take a look at your current schedule, and make a list of your current weekly activities. Where does your family fit into your schedule? Are there any ways that you can make adjustments in order to spend more time with your family? How can you include your children in activities that you would normally spend time doing by yourself?

 

2) Make one night a week Family Fun Night.

It is important in the midst of a busy week to commit a least one night a week to come together as a family, and enjoy one another’s company. This night can also be used to participate in activities together such as going out for an ice-cream cone, playing a game, or simply doing something together that you all enjoy. Make sure to laugh together and most importantly to HAVE FUN!

 

3) Eat at least one meal together a day.

Cooking and eating together as a family is a great way to share about the week, as well as plan for any upcoming events. You might be surprised at how much your children would love to help around the kitchen! To add a different dynamic, invite friends and other family members to join you for dinner, or go out to eat on special occasions!

 

4) Plan time for family outings.

Children love activities. Family outings can be as simple or as elaborate as you please. Find an activity that the entire family enjoys, or take turns choosing the family activity. Make a list as a family of different activities that you enjoy doing. There are many activities that you can do such as going on a bush walk, or to a park to play sport that cost next to nothing.

 

5) Work together around the house.

There are always things that need to get done around the house. While these tasks are usually assigned individually, think of ways that you can do household chores as a family. For instance, after dinner, clear the table and wash the dishes together or get the family outside and do yard. Not only will the job get done faster, but the time can also be spent asking the children about their accomplishments that day.

 

6) Look for opportunities to spend individual time with your children.

One on one time with your children is so valuable. Not only does it invest value and encourage self worth into your child, but it can help to strengthen your relationship, and encourages open communication. Spending time with your child does not just mean taking them along while you run errands. Find out what activities your child enjoys, and do it with them!

 

7) Take time to turn off your television, computer, cell phone and turn on your ears.

While we are fortunate to have so many ways to communicate these days, it is important not to let these devises take priority over our family. As a father it is necessary to turn off your TV set and cell phone, to separate yourself from your computer, and to turn on your ears to hear the needs of your family. Spending time attentively listening to your children and your wife can avoid miscommunication, helps you to get to know them more, and lets them know that they are valued.

 

While these suggestions may seem quite ambitious, remember- they are just ideas. It is up to you to decide what to apply to your family and these ideas are just a few that will help you go from a good dad to a great dad. Remember- your children spell love T-I-M-E.

 

The Fatherhood Foundation wishes every father the best Father’s Day that they have ever had with their children.

For more information, contact Warwick Marsh at 0418-225212, 02 42726677

or online at wwwFatherhood.org.au.





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