Today's children are immersed in technology that parents could only have dreamed of at their age. This will only accelerate as advancements in computer entertainment leap frog into more complex and fast paced gaming experiences.

How can this fact be used by fathers to help their children? Step up and be the parent. A father should make it clear that in order to have the privilege of playing video games or using the computer, chores and homework must be completed AND checked. Too often, or in many cases, most often, a child will come home from school, go straight to the computer and begin playing immediately.

By enforcing a chore/homework rule (along with a time limit for electronic entertainment), a father can not only ensure the chores get done and homework completed (both of which help children when they are out on their own), but also instills a sense of responsibility. Authority is also established, which is critical to maintain as a parent. Too many parents hand their authority over to their children and then complain at how smart-mouthed and disrespectful they are. Children need and want (whether they admit it or not) boundaries that are enforced by their parents. They understand on a basic level that these boundaries are expressions of love. If you didn't care as a father, you wouldn't bother.

Another related issue is the distracted parent. A father who is too busy to discipline or even set boundaries sends a message that he simply does not care. This is very likely not to be the case, but it is what is projected nonetheless.

Staying with the electronic theme, a couple times a week, make it a point to rally the family around the childrens' favorite games and spend an hour playing THEIR games. My children like multiplayer games and we networked out household computers so that we all can play. Even if you don't have multiple computers, children love it when they can show you their accomplishments. Take an interest in their achievements and make sure you ask questions. This does not involve loads of time, just an hour here and there.

Lastly, fathers and discipline go together. Discipline does not always mean corporal punishment. The father who steps in and metes out discipline in a constructive manner is more likely to have a household that is less chaotic and less disrespectful. In fact, all disrespect should be dealt with. If not, your authority as a parent is chipped away at every time you let it slide. One of the most effective tools that will hit home with your child is to take away the electronic entertainment. Remember, these items are not rights they are privileges.

A father who steps up and gets involved with have a positive impact on his children as they grow up and move out.