Nurse your babies at night for bonding - Rev. Dr Ralph Adjaho advises fathers
Fathers with newborns have been urged to actively participate in nursing their babies, especially during nighttime, as it fosters a strong bond between them and their children right from birth.
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The Head Pastor of the Sanctuary Assemblies of God at Gbawe, Accra, Rev. Dr Ralph Adjaho, emphasised that newborns naturally form a strong attachment to their mothers and easily bond with them since mothers are the primary caregivers.
However, Dr Adjaho believes fathers can also develop their own special relationships with their children by providing support to the mothers soon after childbirth.
"In the early days after birth, it's usually the mothers who stay up at night to feed and care for their babies. While mothers struggle to stay awake, fathers often sleep sound. We must ask ourselves, if we are always in a hurry to sleep, do we expect to receive the same kind of affection that children give to their mothers?" Dr Adjaho humorously queried.
He encouraged fathers to take turns or alternate days to attend to their babies at night, allowing the mothers to get some much-needed rest and fully recover.
Dr Adjaho commended young fathers who are challenging traditional roles and spending more quality time with their children in today's society.
Impact of fathers in society
A marriage counsellor and relationship expert, Dr John Boakye, explained in an interview with The Mirror that recent studies have shown the positive effects of fathers' involvement in their children's lives. Children who spend time with their fathers tend to be more confident, feel secure and build better relationships in society.
Dr Boakye, who also contributes as a columnist for The Mirror, noted that some fathers underestimated the importance of their role, leaving the majority of the work to mothers. In many households, fathers are primarily concerned with providing financial support for upkeep, school fees and other bills.
Dr Boakye pointed out that when attending Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) meetings, it is evident that the majority of parents present are mothers. Despite the increasing number of mothers working full-time jobs, they still make an effort to attend such meetings.
“Within Ghanaian communities, fathers traditionally name their children after birth, highlighting their crucial role in shaping their children's identity and sense of belonging.
Additionally, during marriage ceremonies, the consent and blessing of a father holds great significance. In cases where the biological father of a bride-to-be is deceased or unavailable, a father figure stands in to accept the dowry and approve the marriage rites before the bride is handed over to the groom's family,” he stated.
Dr Boakye echoed Rev. Dr Adjaho's observation on the positive trend of young fathers building strong relationships with their children. He expressed his delight when witnessing fathers actively carrying their children at church and other social functions, demonstrating their dedication to raising their children.
Regarding the comparatively low publicity of Father's Day compared to Mother's Day, Dr Boakye suggested that men, in general, are less inclined to prioritise emotional gestures and do not expect gifts or flowers on special occasions. However, he emphasised the importance of the media equally highlighting Father's Day, just as they do for Mother's Day.
Dr Boakye called for more recognition and celebration of fathers, urging media outlets to promote Father's Day and organise events dedicated to fathers.
Celebrating fathers
At the Oak Plaza Hotel, Spintex road, Accra, tomorrow June 18, 2023, The Mirror will pamper, praise and honour fathers and father figures as a way of encouraging them for the great work they are doing.
The ticketed event, which starts at 12 p.m., will see The Mirror and its partners transform a poolside view terrace into a classy buffet setup with a mouth-watering array of perfectly grilled meat, a variety of seafood delicacies and a wide selection of dishes.
According to the Director, Marketing and Sales of the Graphic Communications Group Limited (GCGL), Mr Franklin Sowa, more than 150 fathers and families are expected to be in attendance.
Guests would also be treated to a tasteful selection of music played by a live band with a special musical performance from the Senior Pastor of the Living Streams International, Rev. Paa Joe Markwei (P. J Markwei).
There would be a health talk for men and grooming tips and techniques shared by industry experts, as well as exciting surprises such as gift vouchers, fuel coupons, hampers and discount coupons.
Tickets will be available at the venue but to prevent disappointments, guests must reserve their tickets by calling 0242202447 or 0507067988. A single ticket goes for GH¢300 and GH¢550 for double ticket
The partners for this year’s event are the Oak Plaza Hotel, Woodin, X-Men Ghana, the Nyaho Medical Centre, Goil, Silver Star Auto Ltd and SIC Insurance.
