Fathers' Unique Parenting Skills Can Help Child's Social Development By James Dunsford

According to new research, it may be beneficial for fathers to be a kid again, at least for a little bit.

For some fathers, wrestling and playing video games with their kids can lead to some light teasing on both sides, especially if you are losing. While it may not seem like it, recent studies have found that this practice of teasing can be a helpful parenting skill in improving a child's social development.

New research from the National Communication Association found teasing can be a positive experience in child development because it teaches them "how to show affection and deal with conflict."

"Research shows us that even very young children can recognize that teasing is not always bad; that sometimes it can be a fun way to play with friends and family," said Carol Bishop Mills, one of the authors of the study.

This may include a light-hearted "I don't think you're gonna make it!" during a video game or a good-humored "You think you can take down the old man? Have at it!" before some playful wrestling.

The key, according to the researchers, is to make sure everyone is laughing and having a good time. They suggest fathers use their parenting skills to identify if the teasing crosses over to bullying.

If some slight aggression does emerge from the teasing, fathers can use the opportunity to teach their child about the difference between teasing and bullying, which may help the child in a school environment.

This somewhat loose approach toward parenting can benefit a child's social, physical and intellectual development, according to Dr. Kyle Pruett, a professor of child psychiatry at Yale and author of Fatherneed.

By engaging children in this nontraditional manner, fathers may also develop strong bonds with their kids that may not have been formed another way.

James is a single parenting and parenting skills specialist for greatdad.com.

Father's Day UK, USA and Everywhere Else That Celebrates This Annual Dad's Event - Gift Ideas! By Nasasha Ashah

So what can you get your your dad on Father's Day - held on the third Sunday of June?

Got a bit stuck for ideas? Buying presents for men can be difficult as it is, and perhaps even moreso on this of all days. Maybe you have got a few ideas but are still looking for more options as you are not sure the present is good enough. Well, here are a few ideas to consider whether buying for your dad, or your husband/boyfriend with whom you are parents to a child.

First, some simple gift ideas your father may appreciate:

• Aftershave - A bottle of the scented stuff works well if you know the types of fragrances he likes.
• Shaving Kit or Electronic Shaver - encourage him to keep those whiskers trimmed, especially if they're turning gray.
• DVDs, CDs, Books - Easy, Straighforward, Simple.
• Electronic Gadgets and Accessories - could be something novel like a digital photo frame, or something more common - mp3 player, ipod/iphone, digital camera, mobile phone, games.
• Watches, Rings, Chains, and Cufflinks - Easy, Straightforward, Simple.
• Gift voucher - If you can't choose something, then let him choose himself. Amazon gift vouchers are perfect, so much to choose from.
• Ornaments to decorate the place - and the great thing is it's for the house so it's really a shared present.

If he is a young or adrenaline loving dad, then here are some Fathers Day presents for men that like high-octane action!

• Flying
• Driving
• Skydiving
• Snowboarding
• Hot Air Balloon Ride - this one is good as you could go together!

Non-Adrenaline Activities for the quieter paced father and shared experiences:

• Horse riding - can do it together.
• Champagne flight over London - a together mini-adventure in style.
• Theatre - when was the last time you went?
• Introductory or Professional session in a Recording Studio - As long as you won't regret hearing him post session rehearsing to be a star, this would be a good treat.
• Karaoke - cheaper version of the above. Go find a local bar that has private rooms and arrange a night out with the family or send him off there with his mates.
• Overnight Golf Break - another together activity.
• Holiday Break - a pleasant surprise!
• Local or Luxury Cruise - If you have got the money...

These are of course just some examples of presents for men that are available, but if you were confused before you should be getting some good ideas now of what to buy for Father's Day.

Nasasha Ashah has some more gift ideas over at Father's Day UK

You may also like to read a brief history of Father's Day at: Father's Day History