Celebrating and Thanking Our Dads

Men play an important role in the development of children and in the development of our community. Studies have shown that the way fathers and significant men interact with children through the different phases of their lives has impact on children’s social and emotional development and their educational outcomes. The rough and tumble of a dad’s play in the early years can help children learn how to regulate their feelings and a dad’s influence extends into adolescence and young adulthood. Various studies have shown that children who have active and nurturing fathers are seen to have better verbal skills, intellectual functioning and academic functioning into adolescence. They are also “more likely to be emotionally secure, be confident to explore their surroundings and, as they grow older, have better social connections” (2011, Oliker).

Within our community men have played a significant role in growing and supporting the various activities of the College, including being significant males for each other’s children. Like mums, dads play a significant role in the development of children and community. This week we take the time to thank the men of this community for all they are and for what they have given. We pray that God would give them joy and equip them well for their important role of growing and nurturing young people across all dimensions of their lives, including the spiritual, within their families and the broader community.

(Oliker, D 2011, The Importance of Fathers, https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-long-reach-childhood/201106/the..., accessed 31 August 2017)