Fathers are notorious for being mostly absent in their children’s lives. And while that seems bad, in many cases, it is because dads are out working to provide for the family; in other cases, however, they’re just absent.
But a recent small-scale survey showed that dads are now three times more involved in and anxious about their children’s development. Yes, more Filipino dads spend time attending to their sons and daughters’ school, playtime, bedtime, and overall health needs.
Of 150 Filipino fathers with kids aged 3 years old and above surveyed by Abbott, majority or 70 percent said they read to their kids before bedtime, and half of them have fallen asleep before their child did.
Almost all or 149 dads play with their kids, and 75 percent of them have accidentally made their kids cry while playing.
Meanwhile, nine out of 10 fathers help with their kids’ homework, even though more than half admitted they couldn’t understand the lesson.
All dads surveyed share their food with their kids but a third of them confessed they would take a large bite of theirs first.
While they love to spend time with their children, this dad admitted fatherhood is tough.
About eight out of 10 dads also highlighted that they go through the same things that moms do—struggle, stress, fatigue, pressure, and sometimes even more so.
Despite the difficulty of fatherhood, most of the respondents shared that their children inspire them to be at their best every day.
“There’s no manual set on how to be a father,” shared father of two JC Intal.
“But for me, I have learned that being a father is about giving, understanding, failing, and continuously trying. I have struggled a lot also just like any other dads. Fatherhood is tough, but it’s worth it.”
Intal confessed saying “no” to his girls is the hardest thing for him to do.
But at the end of the day, like the 150 Filipino dads surveyed, he just wants the best for his children.
“I always make a conscious effort to only give the best to Lucia—nothing is more important to me than seeing my girls grow up strong and healthy,” added Intal.
Fathers play an important role in the promotion of their children’s physical activity and healthy eating behaviors.
Abbott, the maker of Similac GainSchool formula milk for kids, suggests modern ways for fathers to remain engaged and have peace of mind. Acts as simple as playing outside in the rain or teaching them how to swim or ride a bike can allow a father to improve his child’s sense of independence, curiosity, and preparedness for the outside world.
In Intal’s case, his family makes sure they stay healthy together—eating right and exercising.
