As a child matures, the father's role changes, and he adapts to the new challenges his child faces in late childhood by encouraging social independence and problem solving. Actively involved fathers positively affect their older children's social development by demonstrating appropriate behavior during play and shared physical activities.
Father as Participator
Fathers tend to engage in more active pursuits with their older children than do mothers. Children with actively involved fathers tend to be less aggressive and more popular than those whose fathers are less involved in their lives. By becoming involved in their older children's sporting activities, a father can model positive social skills such as how to handle defeat, be a gracious winner and prepare for a challenge. Fathers can help an older child build good problem-solving skills by trying out a variety of strategies with him, helping the child choose between viable alternatives.
Father as Guide
Fathers tend to adopt the role of providing guidance to their children. During late childhood, a child's focus becomes more about social relationships, and she begins to evaluate her self-esteem based on her popularity with teachers and peers. During play and shared activities with a father, a child discloses different information than she would talking to her mother. Fathers use this information to gain insight into their child's thoughts and motivations, guiding and steering thechild into more positive, pro-social choices.
Father as Provider
Fathers provide basic necessities to their children including food, shelter and clothing. Through these actions, fathers display responsible adult behaviors. Children with dependable fathers tend to become antisocial significantly less often than children whose fathers are unreliable, research shows. Fathers teach their older children responsibility through assigning chores and doling out allowance money. Children who are not worrying about having their basic needs met feel free to explore socially and are more confident in social situations.
Father as Preparer
Fathers help prepare their children to become responsible adults by modeling appropriate behavior. Set an example of trustworthiness by following through on promises made to older children and demonstrate loyalty by letting your children see you choose to spend time with them, rather than consistently working extra hours, associating with adult friends or watching television without them. Fathers who prepare their children for the tasks of adulthood tend to have children who are happier in their own adult family lives. Balance discipline with praise to teach older children responsible parenting skills.
References
- "The Journal of Early Adolescence"; Parent and Peer Attachment in Late Childhood and Early Adolescence; A. Nickerson, et al.; May 2005
- Father Institute; Outcomes of Father Involvement; April 2005
- University of Florida; The Common Roles of Fathers; Garret D. Evans, et al.
- Midwestern State University: Socioemotional Development in Middle and Late Childhood
