By: Jenna Thompson
Updated: Aug. 2, 2016
Originally Published: Oct. 20, 2005
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Tomsickova Tatyana
In our household, the division of responsibilities between my partner and me shifts like the tides. Depending on our work schedules, some weeks I handle the school pickups and dinner, while he takes charge of getting the kids up and out the door. That last hectic half hour of bath time, dinner cleanup, and pajama wrangling? It’s usually a tag team effort, switching roles based on who’s feeling energetic. But there’s one task that science says my husband should definitely be in charge of: reading bedtime stories.
Research from Harvard University reveals that children whose dads read to them develop stronger language skills compared to those who are read to solely by their mothers. So, if dad is around, let him take the reins when it comes to storytime.
Now, while I appreciate the unique benefits kids gain from a bedtime tale with Dad, I can’t help but feel a bit annoyed that this particular task—the one that’s arguably the most enjoyable—is the one that gets highlighted. What about the study that shows kids benefit when Dad is the one trimming their tiny fingernails? Or the research that suggests they fare better when he’s crouched by the potty during an hour-long wait for a big moment that ends up in their underpants? Where’s the evidence that kids are happier when Dad sorts through their clothes every few months? Just sayin’!
In all seriousness, kids do thrive when fathers engage in the everyday grind of parenting, from diaper duties to attending school events. More dads are stepping up these days, although moms still shoulder a significant share of household chores.
Why Dads Matter in Storytime
So, why do kids gain so much from reading with their fathers? It turns out it’s not just the deep voice or the tickly beard. According to the Harvard study, the way fathers read is different. Dr. Elisabeth Duursma, the lead researcher, explained in the Sydney Morning Herald that dads tend to use more abstract language and relate stories to their child’s own experiences. For instance, when a ladder appears in a story, fathers often share a personal anecdote about a time they used one, whereas mothers might stick to discussing the details of the book and engage kids in labeling or counting.
Dr. Duursma also points out that these variations in interaction can have considerable advantages, such as when dads roughhouse with kids, aiding them in coordinating physical actions with mental focus and self-regulation. In our family, Dad is definitely the rough-and-tumble type, while I provide the cozy cuddles.
I suspect the benefits stem not just from the reading itself but also from the undivided attention kids receive from their dads. Studies show that mothers still spend nearly double the amount of time on childcare and housework compared to fathers, who often work longer hours outside the home.
Of course, these dynamics are shifting, and it seems both men and women can benefit from breaking away from traditional gender roles, allowing for more fulfilling lives. Sharing a bedtime story ranks high on the list of rewarding experiences, and it’s refreshing to see research affirm what many families likely already know: involved dads make a positive impact on their children’s lives too.
Additional Resources
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In summary, having dads read bedtime stories not only enhances children’s language skills but also fosters deeper connections and engagement. It’s a simple yet effective way to ensure that kids benefit from nurturing interactions with their fathers, helping to shape their overall development.