DAD - a child's first hero

It is an ultimate goal of every family guy to be the best dad possible, and no matter how hard they try, all men find it hard to connect with their child sometimes.

For all the dads that find it a bit of a bumpy road, here is a handy checklist to keep in the back pocket:

1. Spend your spare time with them. When we get home from work, often we’re tired and just want to relax. But this is the only time we have with them during the weekdays, often, and you shouldn’t waste it. Take this time to find out about their day, lay on the couch with them.

On weekends, devote as much time as possible to them. While work may be your passion, it won’t be long before they’re grown and no longer want to spend time with you. Take advantage of these years. The thing kids want most from their dads is their time.

2. Read and sing to them. This is one of the most important things you can do for your child. First of all, it’s so much fun. Kids books are really cool, and it’s great when you can share something this wonderful with your child. Second, you are teaching them one of the most fundamentally important skills (reading) that will pay off dividends for life. And third, you are spending time with them, you’re sitting or lying close together, and you are enjoying each other’s company.

All dads can sing!!! Don't let anyone tell you you have a bad voice!!!! Your child responds best to your voice, that is all he or she knows from birth, even before. You pick whatever tune makes you comfortable to sing, it does not have to be a Mother Goose nursery rhyme, nor a lullaby. It could be your favourite song from growing up, or any other song you feel passionate about.

Here is an example:

3. Do the "mom" things.

Things that are traditionally considered “mom” duties are not just for moms anymore — changing diapers, feeding, bathing, rocking them to sleep in the middle of the night. Dads should help out as much as they can, sharing these types of duties equally if possible. In fact, it is not helping out, it is true BONDING, indeed.

You should leap at the chance to do these things, because that’s how you start a life-long close relationship with your child.

4. Teach the child self esteem from day 1.

How do you do this? A million ways, but mainly by showing them (not telling them) that you value them, by spending time with them, by talking and listening to them, by praising things they do, by teaching them (not telling them) how to be competent. Praise and encourage, don’t reprimand and discourage.

5. Show affection.

Kids need physical contact, and not just from their moms. Snuggle with them, hug them, love them. Don't forget to be silly and let loose sometimes.