Thursday, January 15, 2009

Involved Fathers

Did you know that there are 65 million fathers in America and many of them are not involved in the lives of their children. Studies indicate that 27 million children will go to bed tonight without their biological father in the home.

Growing up I was such a Daddy's girl. He could say "jump" and I would ask, "How high?" I often wonder if Dads really know how much they impact their children when they are engaged in their lives.

Imagine what it would be like if all dads were intentional about being involved in the lives of their children. Research commissioned by The National Center for Fathering showed three key fundamentals of a Championship Father: loving, coaching and modeling. To truly make a difference in our culture, fathers also need to encourage other children, and enlist other dads to join the Championship team.

I recently heard someone say that women take their relationship with their father to the grave. In other words, following up from my last post, fathers parent, they don't babysit. The relationship they have or don't have with their children impacts the lives of their children forever.

What can we do to help more fathers be engaged in the lives of their children?

2 comments:

Marc P. said...

your post reminded me of a father/son video I saw on youtube: Dad I'm Watching You

Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MMEwl9dCt8

Susan said...

At a recent retreat women shared about their faith journeys, and a common thread was the absence, presence, or issues caused through the father/daughter relationship. So thankful for FTF and all you do, Julie! Blessings, Susan