From the Assistant Principal

Celebrating Father’s Day

Father’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the important relationships in men’s lives and the special role fathers and father figures play in the lives of children. Often, the connection men have with their children is deeply significant, but many men rarely talk about the importance of family and fatherhood.

In recent years, Australian men have become more open about their role as fathers and the value they place on connection with their families, particularly their children. For many men, becoming a father can be a significant and life-changing experience. It can be an opportunity to reflect on their own experiences of being parented and think about the kind of father they want to be. Many men acknowledge that they want to father differently from their own dads, and the birth of a child can be a wake-up call that encourages them to review the choices they are making in life and develop stronger relationships.

One of the greatest gifts fathers can give their children is time and connection. Whether your children are young or teenagers, making your relationship a priority helps them feel valued, loved and connected. Find things you can all enjoy doing together activities you look forward to and want to share.

Get outdoors and have some fun. Go cycling or enjoy a bushwalk, play cricket or kick a footy in the park, have a picnic or try camping in the backyard. Sometimes the simplest activities create the best memories.

Enjoy time together at home. Watch a favourite show, colour in, cook together or play a board game. You could simply hang out and talk. Be curious about your children; ask about what they enjoy, what matters to them and what makes them laugh.

Connect across generations. Contact grandparents or other family members and talk about what it was like to be a child, a parent or a dad. Looking through old photos and sharing family stories can be a wonderful way to celebrate the generations of fathering and help children learn more about their family history.

Think about the memories you are creating. How would you like your children to describe you to others? My dad is playful, fun, caring, thoughtful and a good listener. The everyday moments you share help shape the memories and relationships your children will carry with them throughout their lives.

As children grow older and become more independent, they may have less time to spend with you. Make the most of this precious time together while you can. Father’s Day is a chance to celebrate not just the role of being a dad, but the unique and lasting relationship you are building with your children.

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads, stepdads, grandfathers and special father figures in our school community. We hope you enjoy a wonderful day celebrating the important relationships in your lives.