Being a real father

As a father, you want only the best for your child. You want to create an environment where they feel safe, loved, and supported – an environment where they can grow up healthy and develop well. I have gone through this journey together with my partner and would like to share with you some things that helped us create a positive and nurturing environment for our child.

The most important foundation for your child’s development is love. Continuously show your child that they are loved – through hugs, words, and your attention. This love is the basis for a healthy self-esteem and trust. Children who grow up in a safe and loving environment develop greater emotional stability and are later better able to form healthy relationships.

What you can do:

1. Take time for your children, even when everyday life is sometimes hectic.
2. Be present and listen when they speak, even if it’s “just” about the latest discoveries in the world of toys.
3. Show affection – whether through a hug, a kiss, or simply by playing together.

In addition to emotional security, it is also important that your child grows up in a safe environment. This not only means that the home is protected from dangers, but also that it provides enough space for exploration and learning. Children are naturally curious and want to discover the world. Give them the opportunity to do this safely.

What you can do:

1. Design your home so that it is both safe and stimulating. Babies and toddlers should be able to play in an environment where they cannot get hurt.
2. Make sure that dangerous objects are out of reach and that electrical outlets are secured.
3. Create an environment that offers learning opportunities – whether through age-appropriate toys, books, or creative materials.

Children need the opportunity to test themselves and develop independence. Give them tasks they can handle on their own, even if it sometimes takes longer or isn’t perfect. This strengthens their self-confidence and problem-solving skills.

What you can do:

1. Let your child do simple tasks, such as tidying up toys or putting on socks.
2. Praise the progress and efforts, not just the end result.
3. Be patient and give the child the time they need to learn things on their own.

Open communication is key for your child to feel understood. Especially in difficult or stressful situations, it is important to acknowledge your child’s feelings and help them identify and process them.

What you can do:

1. Listen actively when your child speaks, and show interest in their thoughts and feelings.
2. Help them name and understand their emotions by openly talking about your own feelings.
3. Be a role model for healthy communication – this also means resolving conflicts calmly and respectfully.

Another important part of a nurturing environment is structure. Children need rules and clear boundaries to feel safe and secure. They need to know what is expected of them and what consequences their behavior may have. It is important that the rules are consistent and fair.

What you can do:

1. Set clear but fair rules for behavior at home and outside.
2. Be consistent in enforcing these rules, but also explain why they are important.
3. Reward good behavior and show that you are proud of your child’s progress.

Children learn a lot through imitation. They observe what you do as parents and adopt many of your behaviors. This means that you need to be a good role model in many areas. Show your child how to treat others with respect, how to solve problems, and how to take responsibility.

What you can do:

1. Be a role model for the values you want to teach: respect, empathy, patience, and responsibility.
2. Show how to deal with challenges and setbacks without giving up.
3. Spend time together and show how important it is to be there for each other.