Your time and your love are two of the best things you can give to your child!

 

Many fathers feel unsure of their role when their new baby is born. Being involved in your baby's life helps to create a strong relationship between you and your child. 

 

Toddlers are curious and love to explore. Try new activities together! By spending time with your toddler you will learn what they like and dislike. 

 

Most children between the ages of three and four are more active and can express themselves well. Being a parent takes energy and patience at this age. Preschoolers want to be more independent but they still need your help and guidance in the activities that you do together.

 

Your young school age child can develop many interests and talents. Perhaps you even share some of these interests and talents! Your child may even teach you something new! 

 

When you spend time with your child, you help them feel safe, secure and loved.  

 

Even the simplest activities will make a difference:

• Hold your baby
• Take your baby for a walk in the stroller or baby carrier
• Give your baby a massage
• Change your child's diapers
• Help with toilet learning when your child is two to three years old
• Go to your child's school or sports events
• Be a parent volunteer for a field trip
• Comfort your child when they are sick, scared or hurt
• Talk, sing and read with your child
• Let your child pick an activity that they enjoy
• Play with your child
• Give your child a bath
• Go for a walk or bicycle/tricycle ride together
• Go to the park, library, early years centre, community centre together
• Go to your child's doctors appointments
• Express positive emotions (smile, laugh and give hugs and kisses)
• Eat snacks and meals together
• Spend time talking and listening to your child (for example: during dinner, while your child is having a bath or at bedtime)
• Encourage your child to talk about what they are thinking and feeling
• Talk with your partner about how you will parent together

 For more information, visit Programs and Resources.