Parenting takes two to clap, and plenty of teamwork to boot!
From playing cheerleaders at the delivery suite, to helping with night feeds, fathers play a supporting role in their own ways.
According to the Father Involvement Research Alliance (FIRA), “Involved fathers are more likely to see their interactions with their children positively be more attentive to their children’s development, better understand, and be more accepting of their children, and enjoy closer, richer father-child relationships.”
Mums often play the role of gatekeepers in the family, and that sometimes influences how much fathers are involved in parenting (or, want to be involved!), and that would unknowingly affect the dynamism of a father-and-child relationship too. Fathers are also pillar of strength and support for mums during the challenging journey, from being the protective father who nurses a wounded knee to instilling child discipline and imparting values.
While both parents are antagonistic when it comes to raise healthy, world-ready children, the importance of an engaged father during a child’s growing up years is certainly instrumental, and deserves more than just a pat on the back.
Celebrating fatherhood with words of love from mummies
We spoke to four mummies in Singapore who share their heartfelt gratitude for having their spouse’s support in parenting. Fathers, these mums want you to know that they appreciate what you do for the children and family! Mums may not say it often, but every action from papas speaks a thousand words to your ladies. Raising your children together is like nurturing your flowers and watch them blossom with your love!
“One great help he has rendered up till this day is his willingness to do night duty.”
To Daddy Ken, father of two:
I would like to thank my husband for always lending me immense support during these initial years of parenting. One great help he has rendered up till this day is his willingness to do night duty. From the time our boy could take to bottle-feeding, he has been waking up in the middle of the night to feed him or get him back to sleep. He knows I need my rest so that I can function properly the next day. Also, he often encourages me to get some ‘ME’ time because he knows I need to be recharged. So, while I get my time off, he would look after the kids. Really thankful to him, my awesome partner.
– Lynn
“Waking up in the middle of the nights for the kids (eg: to prepare their milk), which allows me to have more rest.”
To Papa Aw, father of two:
To my dear partner aka Papa Aw,
Sometimes, you do make me mad;
Sometimes, you do make me laugh.
I believe that’s what love is about?
I appreciate the little things you have done for me & our family. Spending your time with us (though you could have choosen to work OTs for extra income)
Waking up in the middle of the nights for the kids (eg: to prepare their milk), which allows me to have more rest.
Just listening to my naggings when I’m down.
You are my partner, lover and my best friend.
Thanks for always being there for me. You’re the best!
— Xiuli
“You never fail to make it a point to remind her (daughter) that she is very much loved by her mum and dad.”
To hubby Terence, father of one & expecting their second child:
Thank you, dear hubby, for 13 awesome years of being together and for going through the ups and downs of parenting. It warms my heart to see how you dote on our little girl and shower her with love and attention. Although there are times when there is a need to step in to discipline her by making unpopular decisions, you never fail to make it a point to remind her that she is very much loved by her mum and dad. As we look forward to the arrival of our second bundle of joy next month, I know that the best is yet to come and I know that we can count on you to create more happy memories together!
— Justina
“He supports me in all my decisions and walks with me to try to make them successful.”
To Daddy Changhan, father of two:
I really want to thank God for a wonderful partner, friend, husband and father in my life. He has been a great source of support when we had our first child, and to our second child. I remembered there were many times when I need help with the house and baby, he will always be there with me. Often, he would offer to spend time with our children and be willing to listen to me on my preferred type of parenting. He supports me in all my decisions and walks with me to try to make them successful. Thank you, darling!
— Evangeline
Fathers, you’re more important than you think when it comes to parenthood. Together, you can build a wholesome family environment for your children to thrive and blossom into strong, independent people who value the importance of relationships and marriages.
Mums, do you have a special message to your husbands? Remember to share your heartfelt words of appreciation to let them know they are awesome!
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