The Good Life Magazine – September-October 2023

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DAD LIFE More Than Just Grill Masters The Changing Roles of Dads in Modern Parenting WRITTEN BY: PAUL HANKEL In the not-so-distant past, the image of a father was often limited to being the provider, the disciplinarian, and the one who would occasionally step in with the stern "wait until your father gets home." However, times have changed, and with it, the role of dads in parenting has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today, us dads are embracing a much more active and nurturing role in raising their children, reshaping the landscape of modern parenting in profound ways. The Rise of the Involved and Emotionally-connected Dad Gone are the days when fathers were relegated to the sidelines of parenting and only brought in as the last line of discipline. We modern dads need to be more than just a passive observer; we need to be an active participant in every aspect of our children's lives. From diaper changes to bedtime stories, from school pickups to cooking family dinners, modern dads are proving that parenting is not just a mother's domain. This shift has not only broken traditional gender stereotypes but has also set a powerful example for the younger generation, demonstrating that caregiving and emotional support are responsibilities shared by both parents. This trend has broadened with the increase in the number of fathers choosing to work from home or work hybrid work schedules that allow them to be home more. Dads are no longer relegated to the 5:30-bedtime timeframe or being weekend warriors! The Power of Quality Time Us modern dads understand the significance of quality time with our children. We recognize that creating strong emotional bonds from the very beginning is essential for our children’s development. Engaging in activities like playing, helping with homework, attending school events, and exploring shared hobbies create a sense of connection that lasts a lifetime. These shared experiences become the foundation of trust 2 | THE GOOD LIFE
and open communication between fathers and their children, creating an environment where children feel comfortable sharing their feelings with their fathers. There’s nothing “beta,” about being there emotionally for your kids. As a self-diagnosed workaholic, I have come to fully understand that, yes, quantity of time is just as important as quality of time. Being under the same roof as your child does not necessarily equate to quality time spent together. I have had to work very hard to be actively engaged – does that mean I sometimes have to sit through detailed explanations of the computer game Roblox and its many intricacies? Absolutely. But it’s hard not to smile and be excited about something my son is excited about… even if I have no idea what he’s talking about. Kings of the Kitchen and Lords of Laundry In modern parenting, the division of responsibilities between parents is becoming increasingly fluid. We dads are not just lending a hand; more and more we are equal partners in the daily grind of parenting and family life. Gone are the days of “barefoot and pregnant wife”. Us dads are now donning the domestic roles in an effort to balance out household responsibilities. This shift has come due to the changing scope of everyday family life. My father was able to work one or two jobs and support our family while my mother was able to stay home for most of our lives growing up. We were very fortunate. However, for millions of families, this is no longer an option due to the rising cost of living and the expensive nature of raising a family. Sports participation is a prime example of rising costs: see my previous articles for a full rundown of the expenses. From managing household chores to making important decisions, the collaborative and shared approach to parenting and household duties benefits both parents' personal growth and the overall family dynamic. The sharing of responsibilities not only eases the burden on mothers but also encourages a more balanced and happy household where both parents are equally involved. Happy wife, happy life, correct? The Future of Parenting: A Shared Vision As more fathers embrace their multifaceted roles, they are creating a future where children grow up with a broader understanding of changing gender roles, empathy, and the importance of working together as a family unit. Us modern dads are rewriting the script, actively participating in our children's lives, and nurturing a sense of partnership within families. By breaking free from outdated stereotypes and embracing our roles wholeheartedly, fathers are shaping the future, one bedtime story, fart joke, and a shared laugh at a time. Welcome to the new fraternity of paternity, gentlemen. • urbantoadmedia.com | 3
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Page 10 and 11: HAVING A BEER WITH | JUSTIN STORM W
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Page 14 and 15: WRITTEN BY: KRISSY NESS PHOTOS BY:
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Page 24 and 25: Little Pumpkins Available for Adopt
Page 26 and 27: FARGO POWER COUPLE'S GROWING EMPIRE
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Page 30 and 31: LOCAL HERO | BILL AHLFELDT Life Les
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The Good Life Magazine – September-October 2023

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