{"id":30938,"date":"2023-05-17T22:02:15","date_gmt":"2023-05-17T22:02:15","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/localhost\/ftf\/?post_type=first-things&p=30938"},"modified":"2023-05-22T22:14:04","modified_gmt":"2023-05-22T22:14:04","slug":"dear-dads-youre-doing-fine","status":"publish","type":"first-things","link":"https:\/\/www.ftf-stg.magnetry.com\/es\/first-things\/dear-dads-youre-doing-fine\/","title":{"rendered":"Dear Dads: You’re doing fine"},"content":{"rendered":"

The past few months have been a lot for any parent to handle. As a dad, you\u2019ve probably been scrambling to be the best parent you can through all the changes, uncertainty and stress. Now\u2019s a good time to take a deep breath, think about the important role you play in your young child\u2019s life, and have a game plan for going forward.<\/p>\n

\"DadsThey Need You<\/span><\/h2>\n

A close, loving bond with your child helps them feel safe and secure. When they know that you\u2019ll be there for them, take care of them and respond to their needs, then they can relax and develop in healthy, positive ways. <\/span>Kids learn and grow through their relationships with caring adults \u2014 moms and dads, of course, and grandparents and teachers, too \u2014 but the relationship between father and child is unique and important. Dads tend to engage their kids in more physical, rough-and-tumble play than mothers. That helps young children build large muscle skills and also helps them learn to regulate their bodies and emotions. Research also shows that dads tend to ask more questions, which is an important way to build vocabulary and communication skills.<\/p>\n

\"DadsOverall, there is a lot of evidence that a close, caring relationship between father and child has a positive impact on their healthy development in all domains, including physical, social-emotional and thinking skills.<\/p>\n

So, no matter how stressful, frustrating or tough being a dad can be at times \u2014 especially now \u2014 try not to forget how important you are and what a difference you make. You\u2019re not perfect. You make mistakes. But in being there for them, trying your best and letting them know you love them, you\u2019re giving your child what they need most.<\/p>\n

\"Dads\"Take Care of Yourself, Too<\/h2>\n

Young children can pick up on the emotions of their caregivers, so to be the best parent you can be, you need to find ways to de-stress, stay calm and find positive outlets for any strong feelings you have. We recently shared some ways that moms can engage in self-care<\/a>, and those same ideas apply to busy dads. If you\u2019re co-parenting, try to make sure that each of you can take a break and recharge every now and again.<\/p>\n

\"DadsHelp Them Understand<\/h2>\n

With so many new and unexpected changes happening around us, you may not know how or what to share with your toddlers. The key is to understand how to talk with your child in age-appropriate ways. Here are some tips and information that can help you and your family through these tough times:<\/p>\n