Children look to their parents for guidance when it comes to learning how to be a responsible adult. Many of the lessons a little boy learns about becoming a man, a husband and a father come from the male caregiver in the family. Of course, it is wonderful when that positive role model is Dad, but it can also be another responsible male relative or a close community figure such as a teacher, pastor, family doctor or friend. When a boy has someone who can show him by example how to love and care about others, he is well on his way to learning what it takes to be a father.

Fatherhood
"My dad stayed out when it was really cold early Saturday morning to fix the car so my big brother and me wouldn't have to walk to school on Monday." Timothy, 6 years old

Fathers teach all kinds of things about becoming men, sharing life as a husband and being a father. As we are growing up, loving, responsible fathers leave imprints in their children's hearts and minds of how to do the various jobs of a loving male adult in a family. Some may argue that fathers aren't necessarily needed in a family structure, but recent studies contradict that idea.

Boys learn things from father figures that cannot be taught by anyone else. It is that point of view or understanding and trust between a son and father that must be shared. Girls also learn important things from their fathers. They learn about relationships and what to look for in a husband and father. Girls look to their fathers to gain a sense of security and stability in future relationships. Some may call it bonding; others, a passing on of the family torch. Whatever it is, fathers leave an indelible imprint on their children.

Unconditional Love
"My daddy hugged me, even when I lost the race." Sabrina, 4 years old

Children need to know there is a father figure in their lives that loves and cares about who they are and what they need. Fathers let us know that men can love without conditions, have relationships that last, and be sensitive as well as strong.

Respect breeds respectfulness
"My daddy always listens to me when I'm feeling sad." Alex, 5 years old

As role models, parents, especially fathers, need to keep in mind that it is much more likely that children will imitate their parents' behavior rather than do what they're told. Children will best learn the importance of respect for and consideration toward others when being shown those qualities by their parents.

Read more articles in upcoming months on the various roles of mothers and fathers.