|
by Kim Perrone
IF THE GUY in the next cubicle suddenly vaults his desk to charge the
elevator at exactly 5 p.m., you might have just witnessed the new
breed of father who valiantly attempts to squeeze in as much family
time as possible.
These days more dads are realizing that participating in their kids'
daily lives promotes healthy development. Plus, they're wondering
"How do I avoid missing my kids' special moments as my father did?"
It's not easy; just ask the average working mom. However, where
there's planning, there are possibilities.
Policy planner
If you don't have a day planner, get one.
Note kids' games, practices, major exams, school plays, etc.,
alongside work appointments. Even if you can't make a way to attend,
at least your planner will remind you to wish them your best and ask
about the results!
Visit Human Resources for details on your company's family support
policies and flexible-time allowances. May you elect comp time in
place of overtime payment from time to time? If so, use it!
Let's make a deal
"Many employers are taking [family life] into consideration these
days..." says Greg Leith, director of business and corporate
relations for Biola University." [They] need to realize they are
employing the whole person, not just a worker from nine to five."
Still, many men fear being labeled "lame ducks" for requesting
flexible work days. What to do? The Canadian Government Department of
Human Resources and Skills Development recommends you "remove the
personal from the decision-making" when approaching your employer.
Case in point: How would a ten-hour, four-day work week on your part
benefit the company, customers, etc.? Would working one or two days a
week from home tackle extra paperwork? How about a 10:30 a.m. to 6:30
p.m. workday?
Even one shifted schedule a week could make Daddy more of a presence.
|
Family promotion
If you're the head honcho, re-energize your own loyalty to family
time by considering employees' family needs.
Promote a family-friendly workplace where employees write strategies
for making family commitment a priority in their job descriptions.
Designate wall space for family photos or kids' artwork. Host a
"bring your kids to work" day, as well as child-inclusive holiday
parties such as a birthday party for Jesus at Christmas time.
Leith believes, "Christian employers ought to be taking the lead in
this area and demonstrating to the world that we care about people
because Christ showed us the way by caring for the whole person."
Lil' things
No matter how much time you free up, make little moments count in a
big way by actively seeking opportunities to enjoy time with your child.
As you've probably discovered, inquiring "How was school?" reaps
nothing. Ask your child detailed, open-ended questions such as "What
was the craziest thing about your day?" Check out 201 Questions to
Ask Your Kids by Pepper Schwartz (Collins, 2000).
Child and Family Canada reminds us that kids of all ages need
appropriate physical and verbal affection. Make good on hugs, pillow
fights, wrestling matches, pats on the back and tickles. Praise
accomplishments and ask for opinions.
Errands can drag a guy out of the house yet again. Bring a child along!
Create a signature weekly breakfast the family can look forward to.
Playtime offers the best insight into your children's true
personality and emotions. Get involved with sports, dolls, video
games, board games or "Let's Pretend."
Make a statement
Fathers can strengthen family life by demonstrating spirituality and
leading the family in prayer.
As well, inspire the gang to create a family mission statement that
answers these questions: What is the purpose of our family? What do
we hope to stand for? How can we demonstrate our commitment to each
other? Display the signed document for all to reflect on.
Years from now, your current employer might vaguely recollect your
name, if they even remember you at all. However, your children will
be basing their very lives on the nurturing moments you gave them.
Used with permission of Living Light News. Kim Perrone can be reached
at kentoray@optionline.net. Originally published in Living Light
News, May/June 2006.
June 21/2007
|
