Parent to Parent: Father's Day

WSVN--Sitting on this couch are three generations of the Ivashuk family -- seven-year-old Alek, dad, Jeff, and grandpa, Michael.

And while all three are always busy, they always find time for each other.

Jeff Ivashuk: "We wrestle, we hang out, we play in the pool, we just do things together and we talk."

Michael Ivashuk: "Anything my grandson wants to do. I just want him to be happy."

Lynn Martinez: "But a stable father figure doesn't have to be a biological parent. It just has to be a special male role model who can offer direction and guidance."

Dr. Debbie Glasser: "Anything from raising academic achievement, self-esteem, the benefits are numerous and the bottom line is fathers and father figures really matter."

That's why Dr. Debbie says if you are a dad, start bonding with your child as soon as they're born.

Dr. Debbie: "Diaper changing, feeding, learning about sleep paterns. Don't shy away from these moments, these are incredibly valuable bonding opportunities. Roll up your sleeves and get in there Dads."

Then as your child gets older, schedule to spend quality time together.

Dr. Debbie: "Whether it's going for a walk when you get home from work. Whether it's spending a little quality time in the morning before you head out the door and before your children go to school, look for time, make it sacred, and be there."

You can also take a class together... Or combine family and social time by networking with other dads.

Dr. Debbie: "It can be not only an opportunity to share experiences, talk about unique challenges and successes, but also get the kids together and get out."

And if you leave the house before your kids are up or get home after they're asleep, stay connected through e-mail or talking on the phone.

Remember, kids are a reflection of you.

Dr. Debbie: "An important thing is that kids by watching their fathers, learn what fathers can be like. They can learn how to be a father or how to choose a future father for their children."

Alek looks up to both his father and grandfather -- and they wouldn't have it any other way.

Jeff Ivashuk: "I want him to be happy."

Michael Ivashuk: "That's the only thing that actually in life that you enjoy. You enjoy your family, you enjoy your son, you enjoy your grandchildren."

IF YOU HAVE A CONCERN DR. DEBBIE CAN HELP YOU WITH E-MAIL US AT:
parent@wsvn.com

DR. DEBBIE GLASSER'S WEBSITE:
newsforparents.org