by M Jamil
Fatherhood is an amazing and the most exciting experience. After a long day at work when I come home, I am always greeted by two super excited girls at the doorstep. Behind there is also a little one smiling and swaying for the cuddle and this is one of the great feelings for me. They are always very energetic and eager to play with me, if we are going out just for a walk or window-shopping. We regularly play pretend restaurant dinner or tea parties and change their dolly’s dresses. Even if there’s a lot of drama but we enjoy every moment of this time as they are such blessings. There’s a lot of fun in playing hide and seek or tag. Exclusive bedtime stories about princesses, fairies and unicorns where they actively take part are must without a miss. Sometimes they put nail polish on my toes and beautify my head with their bows.
If I recall my own childhood, I had beautiful memories of my parents. They were historian of my infancy and until their death and now I miss them every day. I loved their talk and especially their kindness and affection towards me that I want to share with my kids too I wish my kids to be independent and well cultured who show kindness and respect to others, help them in good conscience and be honest along with their self-belief.
Four years ago, when we moved in Leeds we had no family or friends around and after the second child my wife’s duties as a mother doubled but there was no support available close. I desired to give my wife a little break from this 24/7 kids job as she was constantly busy with them. Luckily, one day on social media I found a Fathers group called ‘Leeds Dads’ and one Saturday, I just went there shyly lacking to know what shall I do there with two kids? Anyway, I was warmly welcomed by Errol and his team who introduced me to the fellow fathers out there, soon after a little chat I felt myself at home while kids were already playing with their new friends and toys around. I joined them in a few events before Pandemic and found them very helpful. I highly appreciate their voluntary support and social interaction with fathers from diverse communities and their children as now I feel proud in taking care of them and can better recognise my obligations being a father.
Lockdown period was a hard and stressful time for every child and their parents as everyone was just confined to their homes where no one could go anywhere. As luck would have it, Leeds Dads resumed their activities after lockdown and I happily started visiting them again. Now, I prefer not to miss any new events, as it’s great fun and learning for kids and of course for their Dads too.
Leeds is a beautiful city where the council is aiming to be a child-friendly but Leeds Dads is already playing their vital role in getting them there! In the end I can say Leeds Dads is the pride of Leeds and I am very proud of them.
