– by Nkosingiphile Ntshangase
Every third Sunday of June we celebrate Father’s Day with the aim being to acknowledge the contribution that fathers – and father figures – make in the lives of children. To most folk, a father represents a mentor, a friend, a role model, and a protector on hand to provide love and guidance through the walk, and sometimes the run, of life.
Fathers are often responsible for teaching children appropriate values and principles that will help them throughout life and assist them to get back on their feet again when tribulations knock them down.
Without doubt, a strong bond between a father and a child is something to be celebrated and appreciated.
Committed fathers play a vital role in their children’s future with the input often continuing well into adulthood producing better outcomes in so many areas including general wellbeing, cognitive development, educational achievement, and healthy self-esteem and social behaviour. According to Rohner & Veneziano (2001)[1], a study conducted among 100 parents and their children revealed that having a loving and nurturing father is as crucial for a child’s happiness as similar input from a mother. Some studies even indicate that father-love is a more substantial contributor to various child well-being outcomes, while the presence of a father figure is important for the good mental and physical health of children.
Probably, the most important aspect of a parent-child relationship is the quality of the relationship, regardless of whether the connection is biological or not.
How to Celebrate Father’s Day in Lockdown? (Try to remain indoors during level 3 lockdown)
• Order a cake for him or even bake one
• Make his favourite meals
• Make him coffee and breakfast
• Decorate his room
• Make him feel special
• Express your love and affection towards him
Fathers form an integral part of the family, and it is important to pay tribute to all the fathers who work consistently and diligently to support and provide the best for their families. We celebrate this day by showing our love, gratitude, and respect towards all fathers.
[1] Rohner, R.P. and Veneziano, R.A. (2001). The Importance of Father Love: History and Contemporary Evidence. Review of General Psychology, 5(4): 382-405. Retrieved 17th June 2021 from: https://www.fatherhood.gov/sites/default/files/resource_files/e000000802_0.pdf