7 Tips For Managing Fatherhood From A Distance – Parenting
In many cases, the father’s absence is interpreted by the little ones in the house as rejection. It is for this reason that we must know how to manage paternity from a distance.
When dad is not at home every day, either for work reasons or because of personal issues with mom, the child may feel abandoned. Faced with these situations, they generally do not understand that they are not guilty of this reality or that it is not a voluntary situation.
As a result, your child may start to close in on himself and stay away from the environment around him. Of course, this will affect his development with his friends, at school and with the rest of the relatives who will be in contact with him.
It is essential to include activities that reaffirm Dad’s presence
Despite the distance, your child will have to learn to respect you as a parent.
In this way, the distances are reduced between the child and this father figure so important for his development. And it’s not about buying thousands of gifts to help you bridge that gap or giving them whatever they want, it’s about playing a defining role in their day-to-day lives, even if you aren’t. not always together.
-Theophrastus-
In other words, the challenge goes beyond making him realize that you are always there for him, for you must foster the respect you deserve, obedience and love above all else. Perhaps imagining this scenario makes you nervous, so we want to give you some tips on how to lead effective distance fatherhood.
Distant fatherhood: useful tips for success
As a father, you will certainly be sad that you don’t have the opportunity to share as much time with your little one as you want. However, we want to give you the strength to continue with this series of tips that will change your mind and help you meet this challenge with a different attitude:
1. Make her feel your presence every day, especially in the most important moments
This includes sad situations, successes, crises, joys and events that every child would like to share with daddy, such as graduation ceremonies, birthday parties, tournaments, festivals, etc. If you can’t attend, tell the truth and explain your reasons.
2. Don’t make promises you can’t keep
Avoid creating illusions that will break her heart later. Be explicit and listen to their needs with love.
3. Find out what interests him
No matter if it’s something temporary, live with the same passion for the things that grab his attention. Participate and give her the space to talk about it.
4. Do not handle it
Some parents want to right their mistakes by giving away toys or treats. The bad news is, this doesn’t set a good example for life and he’ll think it’s the best way to solve problems.
5. Maintain communication
Technology has become the best ally for distant relatives. Fortunately, newer generations have these windows of communication that allow them to be close to those who, for whatever reason, are not there.
6. Introduce yourself with pride
Meet his teachers, class friends, girlfriend, and anyone else who influences him every day.
7. Set clear boundaries
As we mentioned earlier, he must learn to respect you despite the distance. You will always be his father and therefore you must guide him boldly. You will see that in adolescence this will be of great help.
Remote paternity is assumed with vigor and security. The love you sow in your child’s heart will be the same that will blossom over the years. The only guarantee you have to establish a strong bond with your child is in your hands: consistency.
How does long-distance fatherhood affect children?
According to experts, everything will depend on the maturity of mom and dad to handle this situation. In addition, the ability to form strong bonds and maintain effective communication will have a significant impact on the child.
Mom and dad must assume this reality with maturity so as not to affect the child.
An absent father who does not wish to break the distance which separates him from his child could encourage the appearance of a feeling of loneliness and lack of protection. So it’s never too late to show this little angel how much you love him and that without him your life wouldn’t be the same.