Tips to Get Dad More Involved

by Dr. Will Courtenay

Give Your Attitudes a Makeover

Still stuck in "50’s" ideas about parenting? If so, it's time for a makeover. The fact is, in this day and age, dads are more involved than ever. And if you don't update your attitudes, your partner could get stuck in the middle ages.

Women with traditional ideas about the roles of moms and dads, have partners who are less involved with their kids. So, if you want your partner involved, get your attitudes evolved. And remember -- other than breastfeeding -- dads can do everything that moms can do.

By Invitation Only

So, you like the idea of your partner being more involved with your kids. But are you sure about that? A lot of women like the concept, but when it actually comes down to it, they've clearly staked their claim on the home front.

And if your partner thinks that home is mom's turf, chances are, he's not going to want to step on your toes -- and he'll have you take the lead. So, if you really want him involved, you're going to have to invite him in.

Don't "Hop on Pop"

It might be a fun Dr. Seuss book to read to your kids, but jumping on dad isn't a good approach with your partner. In fact, the worst thing you can do is jump on your kids' dad every time he doesn't do the things the way you'd do them. Which leads to the next tip...

Gag The Nag

The three things women do that are guaranteed to turn men off -- and turn them away from their families -- is nag, nag, and nag some more! No one likes to be reminded of the things he should do that he hasn't yet done. Your partner is no exception.

Accessorize Your Feedback

You may have a lot more experience with kids than your partner. And chances are, he can benefit from your experience. But when you're giving him feedback, be careful. Criticism is like silk and it's easy to slip into. So, instead, remember to dress up your observations. Accessorize your feedback with some positive comments.

Give Credit When Credit's Due

Admit it; he doesn't do everything wrong. Right? So, what's wrong with telling him what he does right? Try to acknowledge what your partner does well. A little praise will go a long way to help build the confidence that's necessary for a dad to be more involved with his kids.

Believe in Him

And speaking of confidence, he needs your confidence. Dads who have partners who are confident in their ability to be good fathers are more involved with their kids. So, give him your official mom's seal of approval.

Back Off

Okay, so now you're all set to have a father who's really involved with his kids. One last thing: You've got to get out of his way. Women who are reluctant to give up responsibility to their partners, have fathers who are less involved with their kids. So, step back and let him step in. And remember not to judge what he does.

Dr. Will Courtenay, "The Men's Doc," whose psychotherapy practice is in Berkeley, CA, has been in the forefront of research examining men's well-being. Raising awareness about men's physical and mental health concerns continues to be Courtenay's passion. Now, he is turning the spotlight on men who are dads. One of his specialty areas is postpartum depression in men, an under-diagnosed and little-discussed mental health issue.

For the last several decades, Courtenay has helped hundreds of men as a counselor and psychotherapist. After becoming a father himself, he grew increasingly interested in the experiences of new dads. For more information visit his site.
.
Copyright © Will Courtenay. Permission to republish granted to Pregnancy.org, LLC.