Fathers aren’t from Mars
Yes, fathers are taking on more visible and active roles with their children and that’s a good thing, but I’d like to see more of it, and see greater recognition too. Professor Lewis’ report helps but if we are doing such a great job why is it that in a survey conducted by the charity, Fathers Direct, 91% of children aged nine to eleven still want to see more of Dad? Is it because they aren’t getting enough time with Dad, or because they enjoy his company so much that they want more?
I’m not being naïve, but I do like to be optimistic about the future. And there are some facts I can draw on to support this faith. That same group of nine to eleven-year-olds who wanted more time with Dad also valued their fathers and considered the role to be important. No fewer than 88% of boys want to be fathers when they are older, and 90% of girls want the father of their children to be caring rather than rich. Over 75% of these children also said it was OK for Dad to stay at home looking after the kids while Mum goes out to work. Clearly, the kids have come to terms with the concept of the ‘house husband’ better than today’s mothers and fathers.
I am encouraged and find it fortunate that, as ever, the future of parenting lies in the hands of our children.
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