Answer Back: Children’s views on fathers
| We used to have play fights but now he says ‘No, my back is bad’ or ‘I’m busy’. |
Jodie Pearce, 10, Plymouth
I don't see my real dad any more - he hasn't phoned to arrange to see us. I think children should spend at least one day a week with their dads. My stepdad doesn't spend much time with us because if he isn't at work, he's at football. We used to have play fights but now he says "No, my back is bad" or "I'm busy".
Kierra Box, 15, London
I'd be horrified if my father tried to spend more time with me. A lot of fathers don't spend much time with their children because they are very dull. Any child will tell you they'd prefer to be out with friends, siblings or, at a push, their mother than the guy who thinks wearing a green tie to work is exciting. Fathers are good for three things: money, presents and taking you to the park every Sunday.
Samantha Hunt, 13, Birmingham
I live with my dad and see him every day. He says he makes up for not having a mum. I get double the tellings-off but I get to spend twice the time with him, which is not always good because we argue and fight a lot. But it's nice to know he'll always be there for me.
Rachel Kellett, 16, London
I have a father and stepmother in one home and a mother and stepfather in another. Fitting them all in - as well as taking 11 GCSEs and being a teenage girl with raging hormones - is difficult. You have to build a relationship with each parent. Spending time with children is important, so you and they know they are wanted and loved, which is crucial.
Hugo McIlveen, 14, Belfast
Teenagers want to hang out with their mates, not their dad, and be "independent". But you might want to keep him in the background in case you need him.
Jacob Powell, 10, Plymouth
A lot of parents split up and only one has custody of the child. Mums usually look after the kids and dads don't come round when they say they will. Often it's their jobs, but sometimes it's because they don't want to.
About answer back
answer back is a weekly column by Children's Express members, published in the Parents' pages of The Times.
