Select Region
Follow us!


4 Ways to Make Dad Feel Extra-Special on Father's Day


This Father's Day, teach the kids to show just how special dad is to the family with these four tips that will help dad feel extra-special.

Every year mothers struggle to find the perfect gift for their child’s dad. Not another tie…maybe some tools, a cool gadget, or some cutting-edge electronics? Maybe this year you can recruit the kids to create a homemade present for their father. There are so many good ideas!

dad and daughters roughousingHowever, in addition to anything you might purchase or create, I’d like to suggest another meaningful and longer-lasting gift idea. Many dads underestimate the important role that they play in their child’s life.

It is rare that men are raised to appreciate the importance of a close relationship between father and child—this type of intimacy is often still reserved for mothers. This is because despite small changes, our society, unfortunately, still encourages men to focus primarily on their role as financial provider rather than valuing the other, equally meaningful ways that a dad can bring value to his child’s life.

Therefore, this Father’s Day I strongly encourage you to help your child’s dad to see that his relationship with his child is so much more than he might imagine. Whether you are a stay-at-home mom or a work-out-of-the home mom, I would like to offer a few ways to make this Father’s Day just a little more special for dads and kids.

Embrace difference. Moms and dad offer a child different, but equally important, life skills. Therefore, don’t get angry when dad roughs around a bit more, or is just a tad less patient than you might be. While your instinct is to protect your child, dad’s way of connecting will help your child develop resilience and flexibility, both important life skills.

Shake up the routine. Is bath-time your domain? What about books before bed or homework help? Many moms complain that they ‘do everything,’ but, in fact, are reluctant to give up control.



But now it’s time to relinquish one or two of your routines and hand it over to dad. You may be uncomfortable doing so (will he do a good job?), and at first, your child (or even dad) might resist the change. But, stick with it—because for both your child and dad, having the chance to bond over daily routines is invaluable. And remember, it’s good for your child to learn how to adapt to dad doing things in a different way.

Talk it out. Do your best to share big and small decision making with dad as often as possible. Dads want to be a part of their child’s day-to-day life—some of them just don’t realize it because it’s not how they were raised. When dad sees that you want and respect his opinion about his child, it will give him the confidence and encouragement to break free from the stereotypes with which he was raised.

Make new friends. Seek out friendships with other moms who encourage dads to attend parent/teacher conferences, coach little league, and take charge of teeth brushing. Dads who see other dads that are involved will feel good about this role themselves.

The efforts that you make to support this important relationship will pay off, not just now, but for many years to come. Happy Father’s Day!

 
Dr. Susan Bartell is a Long Island-based, nationally recognized child psychologist, speaker, and award-winning author. Her latest book is The Top 50 Questions Kids Ask. Read more of Dr. Bartell’s advice at nymetroparents.com/bartell.

More Parenting Articles:

Parents Call on MTA to Remove Open-Stroller Ban on NYC Buses

New York City parents are advocating to change the open-stroller ban on NYC buses.


Latest News:

Student Struggling in School: 8 Simple Things You Can Do at Home to Help

Experts share how parents can help if their student is struggling in school, whether it’s in a certain subject or learning in person rather than at ho...


Family Activities:

The Rink

Rockefeller Plaza Nov. 05, 2022 - Mar. 31, 2023

Don't miss this chance to ice skate under the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree- one of New York’s quintessential winter activities.



Have a Laugh:

Best Memes of the Week for Parents

Here are the funniest parenting memes from Instagram, Facebook, and Reddit this week.
Susan Bartell, Psy.D.

Author:

Susan Bartell, Psy.D., is a Long Island-based, nationally recognized child psychologist, speaker, and award-winning author. Dr. Bartell is a media expert, frequently seen on CBS, ABC, FOX, and CNN. She is the author of seven books, including the highly-acclaimed The Top 50 Questions Kids Ask. You can learn more about her at drsusanbartell.com or follow her on Twitter @drsusanbartell.

See More

Featured Listings:

Merrick Pediatric Dentistry

Merrick Pediatric Dentistry

Merrick, NY We are always welcoming new patients and we would love to have you as part of our dental family. Please explore our web site to learn more about us. ...

First Presbyterian Church Nursery School

First Presbyterian Church Nursery School

Greenwich Village, Manhattan, NY Founded in 1952, FPCNS welcomes children 2.3 - 5 years old of diverse backgrounds and religions. Curriculum is based on the belief that young children...

The Nurtury Montessori School

The Nurtury Montessori School

The aim of a Montessori program is to foster the development of basic trust and to assist in the normal development of the personality.

East Woods School

East Woods School

Oyster Bay, NY For 70 years, East Woods has been committed to fostering strength of character and academic excellence. We pride ourselves on developing and encourag...