Elder Speaks: 8 Native American father code and ethics every dad needs to follow

3-Show affection: Children need to know they are loved by their father. Your children need to hear you say, “I love you.” Hug them regularly. You need to initiate affection with your children.

Photo: Levi Blackwolf
4-Respect and honour the mother of your children: It is important that parents are on the same page when it comes to setting limits, discipline and roles in the family. Children do well when they see their parents working together, whether they are living together or not. Think about how you talk about and relate to the mother of your children

5-Be a role model to build trust and security: Your children learn more from what they see you do than from what they hear you say. They are watching how you spend your free time, what your attitude is towards hard work, how you talk about others, and how you handle your emotions (especially anger). Children bond with people they trust and respect.

Haida native With Child
6-Remember that being a father is a life-long commitment Your role as a father starts before pregnancy and continues throughout your child’s entire life. As your child grows, your relationship will grow and change. Children need to know that you will always be there and will always love them.