Want to see fatherhood from a new perspective? This month we’re sharing stories from two BIH dads – Julius and Mitch- who have found their own special ways to connect with their children. They’re sharing their insights on being a father, how they connect with their kids, and what they love most about their role.
Anita’s Husband Julius:
How would you define the role of the father?
I would define my role of a father as being the first example of how an adult carries themselves. Of course, my role is to provide and protect them but more importantly, being the first teacher they engage with through life. Building the characteristics of integrity and morals that will carry them throughout their lives.
How can fathers show up for their children in a way that supports social/emotional growth and development?
Fathers can show up for their children in a way that supports social and emotional growth and development in very simple ways. Since 2 of my 4 children are in school, I make it a priority to ask them questions about school other than “How was your day?” Instead, I’d ask “What was the best thing you learned today?” Or “What were the most challenging things about your day and how did you handle it?” Then based on their answers my wife and I can turn it into a learning lesson for the future. For my babies, I also make it a priority to actually get down on the floor with them and play with them. Whether it’s with toys or an activity, it’s important to me to get down to their level and engage with them.
What are some activities you enjoy doing with your children?
Some activities I enjoy doing with my children are anything that involves being physically active. We play football and soccer. As a former professional wrestler, we play wrestle and I show them how to protect each other and more importantly, stand up for themselves physically and verbally.
What is your favorite part of being a father?
My favorite part of being a father is watching their development over time. Observing the qualities and traits my wife and I have instilled in them grow into their own personalities. I also love reading to them every night. Asking them questions and hearing how they foreshadow future chapters. My motto for them is “Do your best and be your best.”
Nakeitha’s Husband Mitch:
How would you define the role of the father?
Being their support, being someone that they can trust. There’s a lot to fatherhood. Being reliable, someone that our child can trust, providing life necessities for our child, raising our child with respect, teaching them what respect for themselves and others looks like.
How can fathers show up for their children in a way that supports social/emotional growth and development?
A lot of it happens around me allowing our child to find ways to communicate their feelings and experiences and listening to what they’re saying, so that I can help them find the words to express themselves, and feel heard.
What are some activities you enjoy doing with your children?
Singing, being silly and allowing them to be silly, building with toys, watching movies together, playing at the park together, just hanging out and chatting.
What is your favorite part of being a father?
Seeing them become their own person, watching their personalities evolve, observing the similarities between myself and their mother. Getting to enjoy those milestones from birth through childhood.