Thanks for selecting the Father’s Corner. When visiting the Father’s Corner, you’ll find interesting, informative, witty and educational writings from the world of fatherhood. Sometimes I’ll write and offer my personal viewpoint on issues directly impacting men and fathers. Other times I’ll share with you information I receive daily from a wide variety of fatherhood resources I subscribe to. Whatever the case, the material found here at the Father’s Corner will ALWAYS be uplifting, encouraging and positive as the Milwaukee Fatherhood Initiative strives to increase the proportion of involved, responsible and committed fathers in the City of Milwaukee.
Sincerely,
Terence Ray, Director
Milwaukee Fatherhood Initiative
The first installment of the Father’s Corner starts out “fun.” We all love to play, adults as well as children. As adult fathers, we take our fun very serious, and our “toys” reflect that. The biggest “big screen” TV, the newest flat-screen or plasma TV with surround sound or the iPhone…. Yes, “fun-time” is serious business for grown ups. But “playing is serious business” for our children too.
Playing is Serious Business
Hall of Fame baseball player Willie Mays was born in a grimy steel-mill town near Birmingham. Even before he was old enough to walk, his father, Willie Sr., rolled a baseball back and forth with him. When dad stopped, Willie cried. His father had hooked him on baseball, and we’ve been hooked on the Say Hey Kid and The Catch ever since.
Dads, the best way to raise champion children is to take the time to play with them. Researchers have found a strong correlation between fathers and children having fun together and their overall well-being. Play is serious business.
> source: FAMily first & All pro dads
George Williams of the National Center for Fathering has written about the importance of play for fathers and children. He points out that, for many younger children, the language of their world is play. When fathers don't speak that language, but instead try to relate in an adult way, kids can't understand or relate, and may experience feelings of frustration, isolation, or ignorance.
There are many benefits to child's play: Children learn to communicate and cope with problems; they make connections and learn about limits and morals; and they develop intellectually. Play comes naturally to most dads. Some of us just need to do it more.
- It isn't about you. Ask your child what he wants to do and allow him to lead.
- Be childlike. The doorway to your child's world is a small one. Get down on your child's level. (And remember, there's no room for embarrassment.)
- Make play a priority. Don't let this important time with your child get pushed to the back burner. Schedule regular playtimes together.
- Play hard. Your child knows when you're only playing half-heartedly. You have to be completely, actively involved.
- Have fun. Laughter is a good gauge for how well the play is going. Don't worry so much about the rules or keeping score. Just relax and enjoy being together.
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