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7 Reasons why children love dad more than mom

TOI Lifestyle Desk | Last updated on - Dec 18, 2025, 15:14 IST
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7 Reasons why children love dad more than mom

Every family will notice this common occurrence: children tend to go to their dad for fun, solace, or enjoyment despite the omnipresent mom. This by no means implies the children love their moms less. According to experts, it’s because children tend to build different emotional ties with each of their parents. Dads may be associated with freedom and joy in a different manner. Knowing these explanations can enable parents to value their own special places in the family without feelings of comparison and guilt.

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Dads are often thought of as play partners

Children tend to link their fathers with fun activities. Whether it is playing rough-and-tumble games or telling silly jokes, fathers are known to turn ordinary situations into exciting events. Such activities help to create a sense of both happiness and ease in children. Although their mothers are known to be more concerned about rituals and security, it is their fathers whom children turn to in order to have fun.

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Dads feel like a break from rules

Mothers may supervise daily routines, assignments, food, and behaviour, which children consider to be "rules." The fathers, however, are often considered to be less rigid or "easier." They give children a feeling of less pressure and greater freedom. If children want a break from rules, they may go to Dad. It does not necessarily mean that the mothers are strict. It only means that kids link freedom with Dads and responsibility with Moms.

4/8

Dads provide silent emotional support

Many dads show their love in the form of presence instead of words. Sometimes just sitting with the child, just listening, or just giving them a hug without any expectations might feel like comfort. Children look up to dads when they do not want any feedback. Such effortless support helps the children feel secure. Later on, the children learn that dad is the one who understands them without any need to explain.

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Dads are viewed as protectors

Children look up to their father as someone who is strong and protective of them. It may be solving problems, backing them up when necessary, or providing comfort and reassurance. Fathers are the epitome of protection. This element of protection instills confidence and courage within the children. Children will emotionally turn to their father when they are fearful or uncertain about something.

6/8

Dads react with less emotional intensity

Fathers are also less likely to overreact to a mistake or an emotional display. Because fathers tend to stay calm, it helps to give children a sense that they're not judging them. "Children, if they think they are going to be yelled at or that mom doesn't understand, may pick dad," explains Cohn. He stays calm, and that gives children a sense that they're accepted, even if they're wrong. It doesn't mean moms are too emotional; it's a matter of parenting style that kids interpret as they go along.

7/8

Dads feel like best friends at times

Children also look up to their fathers as friends that they are able to joke around with, tease, and just relax with. They communicate in such a way that their children get a chance to say what is on their minds freely, since their dad keeps on listening and talks less. That kind of friendship makes children feel that they are equally valued.

8/8

Mom’s love always feels like a given

Children tend not to appreciate their mother’s love because, to some extent, it is consistent and unconditional. Mothers also tend to always be that one person who is emotionally reliable, no matter what. Hence, since they get all their security from their mother, it is not a big deal if they look for some fun elsewhere. It does not make their mother any less important; it is actually a sign that their mother trusts them a lot.

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