Lessons from Prevention: How I'm Ready to Take on Fatherhood
In case you haven't heard, Lynlie (my beautiful wife) and I are expecting a little one this Summer! As I prepare for fatherhood, I've realized how much my work in prevention has crossed with being a positive role model for Baby C. Working in substance misuse prevention for over a decade, I've gained a great deal of knowledge and expertise in several areas that have coincidentally prepared me to be a better father!
Risk & Protective Factors
First and foremost, my work has taught me the importance of understanding risk and protective factors around substance misuse disorders. By understanding these variables, I've gained a greater awareness of the risks that my child may face as they grow and develop so I can be proactive in mitigating them.
Positive Youth Development
My background in prevention has also provided me with the ability to promote positive youth development. This awesome approach focuses on building the strengths of our youth, rather than exclusively addressing their problems or deficits. Fostering these relationships builds self-esteem, resiliency, and confidence to better navigate the natural ups and downs of life.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
Throughout my career, I have also developed a deep appreciation for empathy and communication found in the practice of social-emotional learning. SEL refers to the process of acquiring and applying the knowledge, attitudes, and skills needed to recognize and manage emotions, build healthy relationships, solve problems effectively, and make responsible decisions. When working with our youngsters, SEL involves helping them develop social and emotional skills that will enable them to navigate the complexities of social interactions and better understand their own emotions and the emotions of others.
By approaching my child with compassion, our communication can also be more clear and meaningful (well... once Baby C can talk at least!). This not only builds a strong bond between us but will also facilitate growth in important life skills, such as problem-solving, decision-making, and conflict resolution as they mature.
Live by Example
Ever heard me talk about LIVING by example? Similar to my discussions in prevention, this approach is equally vital to foster healthy behaviors as children grow. The hazards of "do as I say, not as I do" parenting can be detrimental to our child's development and result in unhealthy relationships with substances. To encourage healthy decisions, it's crucial for us as parents to be disciplined in living by example.
In light of living integrity, I have found it vital to encourage youth to embrace new chapters in life and the stressors that come with them without slipping into old patterns also by living by example. Becoming a new parent is certainly a big life change that comes with its own set of stressors, isn't it?
While entering fatherhood is an exciting and rewarding experience, it can also be overwhelming at times. This is where maintaining sobriety while tackling my own stressors as a new father is key. I plan to do this by keeping myself healthy and continuing to strengthen my coping mechanisms. Here are some ways I anticipate managing these stressors:
Taking care of myself by getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and finding time for exercise or relaxation.
Having open communication with Lynlie (my beautiful wife!) to help us both navigate the challenges of parenthood.
Practicing mindfulness through breathwork, prayer, and meditation enables me to remain present and calm during stressful situations.
Maintaining social connections with friends and family to ensure Lynlie and I feel supported and less isolated.
Having fun! Smiling is some of the best medicine. I can't wait to play, sing, and laugh with our little one to create positive experiences and memories.
Positive youth development, social-emotional learning, and leading by example are essential approaches for building healthy relationships with our children. Fostering positive relationships by focusing on building our child's strengths, communicating with empathy and compassion, and leading by example can help them develop important life skills and resiliency. I believe it's essential for new parents to maintain sobriety and manage their own stressors to be the best parent they can be. By prioritizing self-care and modeling healthy behavior, I know I can provide a supportive and nurturing environment for our little one to thrive in.
Again, I am confident my work in substance misuse prevention has equipped me with a range of skills and knowledge that I believe will help me be the best father I can be. So thank you all for helping me to be a better father to baby Closson whether you knew it or not!
Until next time... Keep rockin'!
-Dave
