Myths About "Roughhousing:"

There are many myths about fathers and parenting. For example, dads who roughhouse at times can be accused of encouraging their child to be too physical. Somehow, roughhousing leads to physical aggression down the road. In other words, dads get a bad rap for "roughhousing."

Believe it or not, it has many healthy benefits. According to John Snarey, a fathering expert "children who roughhouse with their fathers learn that biting, kicking and other forms of physical violence are not acceptable.³ They learn self-control by being told when "enough is enough" and when to settle down. Girls and boys both learn a healthy balance between timidity and aggression." 

Fathers encourage confidence through play. Children learn risk by taking steps towards confidence. So if you are a fatherhood figure, get in their dad, and play with your kids. They are constantly learning through your examples of play.