National Play Day with Dad

National Play Day With Dad is celebrated on November 25th in America. This is a special holiday on which fathers all over the country take time off from their usual daily lives to spend time with their children. The purpose of this holiday is to emphasize the importance of two parents in raising a child. We think this is a great idea!

History

Traditionally, the mother has been responsible for the majority of child-raising duties. Fathers were often seen as limited to providing for the family and not taking an active role in the education of their children. This situation is still seen in many families with double incomes. In the 1950s, some maternity hospitals began to invite men to take part in the birth process, supporting the woman but not in the room. By the 1970s, men could enter the room to witness the birth of their children.

Today, society is changing and men are becoming more aware of the importance of their role in raising their children. Studies have shown that 8-10 hours of parenting duties are shared between both parents. There is more work to be done, as some heads of families are not recognizing the responsibility of both parents in child-rearing.

Interesting facts

• Paternal genes are believed to help the fetus develop and extract more nutrients from the mother’s body – this was the conclusion of the biologist David Haig.
• Children who receive sufficient attention from their fathers are less prone to aggression and cruelty.
• Children learn to speak more quickly from their fathers than their mothers.
• Postpartum depression in fathers can affect the well-being of their baby.

How to take part

If you have a child, take the time to spend with them on National Play Day With Dad! Reflect on the amount of time you are spending with your child. If you are a woman, explain the importance of this day to your husband and tell them about the research and stories of other families.

When is National Play Day with Dad celebrated in 2023?

National Play Day with Dad is observed on November 25 each year.

Observations