Dads Play An Important Role in Kid’s Lives

Last evening, CNN ran a feature hosted by Roland Martin and Soledad O’Brien called “Reclaiming the Dream”. I must admit that I didn’t view the entire episode, but I was impressed by the profile about Steve Harvey’s youth program. Before I tell you why, let me first say I have never been counted among Steve Harvey’s fan base. Nothing personal against him, it’s just that his humor never appealed to me, but my pre-teen son loved him. You couldn’t pay me to listen to his show or watch his re-runs.

That is until last evening.

The CNN special spotlighted Harvey’s weekend camp for boys called “How-to-be-a-man school” Don’t be fooled. The curious title intentionally reflects Harvey’s comedic flair, but it’s nothing to scoff at. The camp is actually a clandestine mentoring opportunity for young boys from single mom homes. While enjoying camp, young boys learn life lessons most commonly taught by dads. In one scene, a little guy is taught to tie a necktie while being compassionately coached by an African-American male. The moment is touching and inspiring.

New position: I love Steve Harvey!!!

Through the years, I received tons of emails from dads accusing Sisters Helping Sisters of ignoring their plight in the child-rearing process. Nothing could be further from the truth! Here’s the skinny: Sisters Helping Sisters supports and empowers single moms to reach their fullest personal potential so that they can raise healthy, strong young people. The goals and the mission are clear and succinct - moms. SHS does not in any way malign the needs or contributions of dads.

As a result of the Steve Harvey feature on CNN, we take this opportunity to salute them. Fathers play a huge role in the healthy development of kids. The most unselfish and magnanimous gift you can give your child is allow their dad to be a part of their life. Whether or not they pay child support, regardless of how they disappointed you relationally, the kids need dad. As long as no safety risks exist, you’ve got to encourage that relationship. Dad’s involvement can contribute to your children’s lives in a myriad of positive ways.

For instance, a University of Illinois study shows that the earlier dads are involved, the more likely they’ll interact as the child(ren) matures. If your children are small now, be sure to include dad in pediatrician, school visits and more. Believe me; you’ll need support from the child’s father as the child approaches [and during] the adolescent years. Further, your child’s sexual choices can be linked to that dad/child relationship.

A study from the same university says “the more attentive the dad — and the more he knows about his teenage child's friends — the bigger the impact on the teen's sexual behavior…” Although your role is important, the study shows that dad’s is “twice as influential”. Make room for daddy!

Letting some dads “in” is difficult, I admit that. I’ve been there. At times, I forgot it wasn’t about me, but about my son. Thankfully, I learned that lesson and his dad was a large part of his growing into the wonderful man he is today. After a while, when he disappeared from his life, we were blessed to have another great dad willingly step in to fill the void.

Bottom line: in spite of your ex’s role in the break-up, he’s essential to your child’s well-being.

So, on this day, at this moment, in response to Steve Harvey’s notable efforts, we salute and honor you, dad! Keep up the good work improving the lives of your children. They need you and truth be told, so do we. What do you think?

Watch video from CNN
http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2009/black.in.america/

Visit Steve Harvey's Website
http://steveharvey.com/

Divorce May Widen Distance Between Teens, Fathers
http://www.physorg.com/news119098181.html

The Role of Fathers with Daughters and Sons
http://www.aces.uiuc.edu/news/stories/news4822.html

Devoted Dad Key to Reducing Risky Teen Sex
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/31086977/