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Father’s greatest gift to children
What is the greatest gift a father can give his children? This was
one of the questions put to 700 fathers by researcher Kathy Simon. One
father’s suggestion was: the gift of time. A father can spend a great
deal of positive time with his children. Listening to them. Sharing his
life with them. Enhancing their self-esteem by enjoying their company
and doing things with them."
However, the number one response from the fathers surveyed, was that the
greatest gift a father can give his children is to love their mother.
It is important for fathers to love and respect mothers for what they
do. Says Family and Community Development Specialist John DeFrain of
Nebraska University. One way fathers can demonstrate this love and
respect is to invest time with the children; caring for their basic
needs and having fun simply being with them.
De Frain says: Fathers cannot afford to be so involved in work and
caring for his children’s needs that he forgets his partner’s emotional
needs and his own need for genuine connection with her. It is important
to remember that the marital relationship is the glue that holds the
family together.
Source: A University of Nebraska NebFact Publication Creating a Strong
Family The Greatest Gift a Father Can Give His Children By John
DeFrain, Extension Specialist, Family and Community
Development
© Barbara King, December 3, 2003
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