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Hands-on dads boost mental development in babies
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A recent study conducted by researchers from Imperial College London found that active, hands-on dads can have a positive impact a baby's cognitive development and learning.
The study, published by the Infant Mental Health Journal observed 128 dads playing with their three-month-old babies without toys, and gave the dads a grading on their level of interaction. The same dads were then observed reading a book with the same child when the child was two years old. At this age, the children also undertook a series of simple tests involving recognising colours and shapes, to measure their cognitive development.
Taking into account external factors such as age and income, the data showed a positive link between those dads with a higher interaction grading and the child's cognitive test score. Girls and boys scored equally.
Professor Paul Ramchandani, research lead from Imperial College, said: "Even as early as three months, these father–child interactions can positively predict cognitive development almost two years later, so there's something probably quite meaningful for later development, and that really hasn't been shown much before."
He continued, "The clear message for new fathers here is to get stuck in and play with your baby. Even when they're really young playing and interacting with them can have a positive effect."
Dr Vaheshta Sethna, from King's College, London, added: "Our findings highlight the importance of supporting fathers to interact more positively with their children in early infancy. Specifically, considering interventions which encourage increased father–infant engagement with shared positive emotions, and book sharing sessions supportive of cognitive development."
Professor Ramchandani concluded: "For those fathers who are more engaged it may be that there is a lot more positive stuff going on in their lives generally. That might be the reason for the link, but we can't be sure of that. All we can say is that there is a signal here, and it seems to be an important one."
Why dads matter
With Father's Day just around the corner, this research demonstrates the importance of a positive male role model in a child's development, not just in terms of early cognitive development, but as a positive influence throughout childhood.
Playing
Dad play is often quite physical, helping children to regulate their feelings and behaviour, handling aggressive impulses and physical contact.
Risk
Where mums tend to err on the side of caution, dads are more likely to encourage children to take risks, overcome obstacles, push themselves a little further.
Discipline
Though discipline comes from both parents, dads can often enforce rules firmer, whilst mums tend to try to reason with their children.
How can dads get more involved?
Though the lion's share of the care of a newborn may often fall to the new mum because of breastfeeding, there are still many ways for a new dad to be involved. Bath time is a perfect place to start, giving Mum a break and Dad a chance to bond. You'll also find that Dad often has the magic touch to soothe a grizzly, tired baby.
Once everyone is back at work, make it part of Dad's evening routine to spend time alone with the little one. Pop bub in the carrier and go for a walk, lay down together on the mat and have a cuddle, or just sit together and chat about the day.
For older kids, everyday activities matter. Whether it's kicking a ball around, playing dress ups, cooking dinner together or heading down to the park, these everyday activities make a big difference.
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