YESTERDAY was set aside in the world’s annual calendar to honour fathers; but how many fathers honour their responsibilities? The biological feat of impregnating a woman is, generally, a simple and probably enjoyable activity, but the responsibilities that come with fatherhood have many men running for cover; that is, after the boasting, machismo chest-beating and celebrations are over.Being a good father is not an easy proposition; and unless a man is fully committed, he should not even think of fathering children, because a father’s duties are, first and foremost, time-consuming and all-consuming.

A good parent needs to be there for their children; not just for milestones, which, of course, are important, but also for the daily events, such as study, play, guidance, companionship and friendship, because, the first shaper of a child’s personality is a parent.
Discipline is necessary, but first it is more important to be a good role model; not the “Do as I say and not as I do” variety.
Although it is necessary to try to understand your child’s point of view or fears, give his or her opinions a hearing and genuine consideration, as a parent has to make the final decision on what the child needs, and what is the best course of action, because, at the end of the day, a parent is the absolute guardian of the child’s interests and welfare; and most (should be) to guide the child in the right direction so that its pursuits are elevating to the rounded personality that should befit a good and productive human being.
A father needs to schedule his commitments so that they interfere as little as possible with quality time he should be spending with his offspring; and each child should get its equal share of his attention, because sibling rivalry is painful and destructive, and starts with competition for a parent’s love and attention.
And whilst fathers are not superhumans and do get tired, then it is okay to sit in front of a television and watch a movie or a game together. Even girls like to relate to bonding with dad over a game.
And sharing even one mealtime a day is a prerequisite for bonding with the entire family; not hiding behind a newspaper or book, but sharing experiences, relating to each other in the multiplicity of ways that families do over a meal. This builds trust and relationships and, most importantly, memories that last a lifetime.
Build your child’s character by teaching him or her responsibilities by not shirking yours; delegate household tasks to everyone and ensure all of you play your part. Daily tasks instill discipline and a sense of time, and give a child a sense of comfortability.
While discipline is important, punishment should not exceed the crime. Discuss with your children your expectations, and what should be the parameters for behavioural patterns; and let them know boundaries in no uncertain manner.
If you invest time, care and love in your children, the rewards are limitless, not the least of which is love and respect, and the knowledge that you helped shape a good human being. Because, ultimately, a good father is the shaper of his child’s character and destiny.