English
When sending a child to the first grade, many fathers have mixed feelings – from pride to anxiety. Unlike mothers, who are more likely to discuss their worries, men tend to keep their anxieties to themselves. Let’s find out what fears most often worry modern dads and how to deal with them.
1. ‘Will the child be able to cope with the workload?’
🔹 What worries:
– Will the psyche not be able to withstand the new regime and demands?
– Will the school will not take away the natural curiosity?
– How to combine study with clubs and recreation?
💡 How to help:
– Do not demand straight A’s – the first year of adaptation
– Keep an eye not on grades, but on the interest in learning.
– Organise a gentle regime with breaks.
2. ‘Will he find his place in the team?’
🔹 Hidden fears:
– Will not be the object of ridicule or bullying?
– Will he be able to stand up for himself?
– Will he or she not fall into bad company?
💡 Tips for Dad:
– Develop social skills through sports/clubs
– Teach him not to fight, but to say ‘no’ confidently.
– Discuss school relationships regularly
3. ‘Am I providing enough for the family?’
🔹 Financial worries:
– Will there be enough money for quality education?
– Will the child not have complexes because of a modest wardrobe?
– How to pay for tutors if needed?
💡 What to do:
– Remember that love is more important than expensive gadgets
– Look for alternatives – libraries, online courses
– Don’t transfer your career ambitions to your child
4. ‘Will I be able to help with my studies?’
🔹 Typical fears:
– Has forgotten the school curriculum
– Doesn’t understand modern teaching methods
– Afraid of looking stupid in front of the child
💡 Solution:
– Master the material with the child
– Recognise when not knowing the answer is okay
– Use YouTube and learning platforms
5. ‘Won’t we lose touch?’
🔹 Emotional distress:
– School will take up all the time – will there be any room left for socialising?
– Will the child stop sharing experiences?
– How to maintain authority when the teacher shows up?
💡 Tips:
– Make traditions: Saturday breakfasts, camping trips
– Take an interest not only in grades, but also in emotions
– Maintain contact with the teacher
6. ‘Am I a good enough father?’
🔹 A major male fear:
– Am I parenting right?
– Will I not repeat my parents’ mistakes?
– What if my child grows up to be a failure?
💡 It’s important to realise:
– There is no such thing as a perfect parent
– The best example is to be sincere and responsible
– A trusting relationship is more important than ‘perfect’ parenting
How a father can deal with anxiety
1. Talk about anxiety – with wife, friends, psychologist
2. Focus on solutions, not fears
3. Remember that school is just a phase and your love is forever The main point is that your anxiety is a sign that you are a caring father. But a child does not need a perfect parent, but a sincere and loving one.
