Roles of the digital dad

The role of fathers in parenting has evolved significantly over the past few decades.

Modern dads are increasingly involved in all aspects of child-rearing, challenging traditional gender roles and contributing to a more balanced and supportive family dynamic.

Through the experiences of Thomas Onyango, Yvette Omosoh, and Felix Mwangi, we gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact fathers can have on their children’s lives, as well as the challenges faced in their absence.

Active participation in childcare

Gone are the days when fathers were seen only as providers and disciplinarians. Today, dads like Thomas Onyango, a 46-year-old mechanic from Dandora in Nairobi, are actively involved in everyday childcare tasks such as feeding, diapering, and bathing.

“Being a dad is the most important job I have. I make sure to spend quality time with my kids, whether it’s helping with homework, playing games, or just having a good chat about their day,” said Thomas.

This hands-on approach not only strengthens the father-child bond but also supports the mother, promoting a more equitable division of labour.

Emotional support and bonding

Fathers play a crucial role in their children’s emotional development. By being present and emotionally available, dads help foster a sense of security and trust.

Yvette Omosoh, a third-year film student from the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication, reflects on her father’s influence to making her a better person by teaching her good morals and values.

“I was provided with emotional support. My dad has done nothing but his best in bringing me up and ensured I’ve had the best childhood, upbringing, and preparation for adulthood,” she said.

The impact of absence

However, the absence of a father can leave a significant void. Felix Mwangi, a 23-year-old young man, shares his experience of growing up without a dad, a situation he feels left a big gap in his life.

He said, “there were many moments when I feel lost and unsure of myself. I have to navigate the challenges of growing up without the guidance and support that a father typically provides.”

Felix explained that having a father present would have made a difference in his life by providing guidance, emotional support, and confidence-building.

Sharing responsibilities

Modern parenting is about partnership. Sharing responsibilities, whether it’s household chores or managing the children’s schedules, ensures that both parents contribute equally.

This balance reduces stress and allows each parent to pursue personal interests and career goals.

“Evenings and weekends are strictly family time. My wife and I have a system where we share household duties, so neither of us feels overwhelmed.” Thomas emphasized the importance of teamwork with his wife.

Promoting gender equality

Involved fatherhood promotes gender equality by challenging traditional stereotypes. When children see their fathers participating in both caregiving and earning roles, they learn that these responsibilities are not defined by gender.

This perspective can have a lasting impact on their views of gender equality in relationships.

Guidance

Yvette appreciates her father’s modern approach to life and the support he gave her when making the decision on a course to pursue.

“I was given room to decide for myself on the field I was passionate about, and it came with full support from my father.” She stresses.

Felix highlights the importance of mentorship and positive role models: “Having a father figure, even if it wasn’t my biological dad, would have made a big difference. Mentorship and guidance are crucial, especially during the formative years.”

Overcoming challenges

Despite the progress, modern dads may face challenges, including societal expectations and workplace policies that do not always support active fatherhood.

Overcoming these barriers requires advocacy for better paternity leave policies, workplace flexibility, and societal acceptance of diverse parenting roles.

Embracing the fatherhood role not only benefits the family unit but also promotes a more equitable and compassionate society.