Casal dels Infants – Many parents believe that raising smart children depends mainly on formal education or the mother’s role in caregiving. However, a study from the United Kingdom reveals an interesting fact: a father’s involvement also plays a crucial role in shaping children through their cognitive development.
Research from the University of Leeds shows that children cared for by their fathers from an early age are more likely to become smart children compared to those who rely mainly on maternal caregiving.
The Impact of Father’s Involvement on Child Intelligence
A father’s engagement has proven to influence a child’s growth well into their primary school years. Children who frequently read or play with their fathers perform better academically in their first year of school.
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Furthermore, findings from a study involving nearly 5,000 households in the UK revealed that:
- Three-year-olds who regularly interacted with their fathers achieved higher academic performance at age five.
- Children who received intensive fatherly involvement at age five earned better grades at school by age seven.
This happens because fathers and mothers bring different parenting styles. Children exposed to both forms of stimulation tend to develop more diverse skills in language, thinking, and behavior.
The Different Roles of Fathers and Mothers
According to the study, fathers typically engage with their children in ways that differ from mothers. These differences provide unique benefits to a child’s educational outcomes.
- Father’s role: Enhances academic achievement and critical thinking.
- Mother’s role: Helps reduce hyperactivity, strengthens social skills, and fosters emotional and pro-social behavior.
The combination of both roles allows children to grow in a more balanced way, cognitively, emotionally, and socially.
Parenting Collaboration from an Early Age
Lead researcher Helen Norman emphasized the importance of cooperation between fathers and mothers in raising children. “Mothers are often seen as the primary caregivers, yet early father involvement can significantly boost children’s intelligence and school performance,” she explained.
Therefore, researchers encourage fathers to be more active in their children’s daily lives. Simple steps include:
- Spending time playing or reading together.
- Communicating regularly with children.
- Learning parenting skills from other parents.
- Building connections within parenting communities.
A child’s intelligence is not determined solely by school or the mother’s role. Early fatherly involvement is equally vital. When both parents work together, they provide a strong foundation for children to grow smarter, more confident, and better prepared to succeed academically.
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