It is fortunate that in recent years more and more fathers have become active partners in parenting. While Mother’s Day remains a much-anticipated occasion among families, Father’s Day has been getting as popular too.
At SM Supermalls’ #DadsDayatSM2019 Digital Media Conference held last June 14, 2019 in SM City Fairview, I was the guest expert in a panel which included two dads and a teenaged girl.
One of the issues we discussed was how occasions like Father’s Day help in strengthening family bonds in the digital age.
More than a celebration of dads, Father’s Day gives families the opportunity to connect and engage with one another preferably unplugged. With gadgets off and hopefully out of sight, families can have fun, focused on enjoying each other’s presence.
The celebration of the occasion can be made more meaningful by indulging in activities that Dad will enjoy. For a change, ask Dad what he wants to do and what he wants to eat. Big kids can plan the day for Dad, making sure they get his feedback all the way. If your kids are still little, then take the driver’s seat, planning activities your spouse will enjoy.
A child’s relationship with his father is different with the one he has with his mother in many ways. Men are more activity-oriented, choosing to spend time with their kids as they go through a task. Women are more relationship-oriented. Sharing of themselves as they through an activity together. The dynamics of the relationship and the bonding is thus different.
Celebrating Father’s Day is not only a reminder to celebrate dad’s role and place in the family, it is also an opportunity to build happy memories. Enjoying good times together helps in building a strong family. These occasions don’t just happen. Families need to be intentional in how and when they want to spend time together. Fathers should ideally take the lead, but on Father’s Day, moms and kids can spring him a surprise which will warm his heart.