5 Qualities to Look for in a Man to Know He’ll Be a Great Father

Choosing a husband is a big deal, but your kids won’t get to pick their dad. That’s why it’s so important to make sure your partner has what it takes to be a good father. 

When you’re thinking about building a life together, it’s worth looking for certain qualities that show a man will be a great dad. After all, the right traits can make all the difference in creating a happy, supportive household. 

Are you thinking about starting a family? Here are five qualities to look for in a man to know he’ll be a great father. Pin, save, or share the image below to remind yourself of what really matters in a partner!

1. Patience

Being a dad is a bit like being a superhero—you’ve got to have a lot of patience. Kids need tons of time and attention, and staying calm despite their ever-changing moods and needs is a superpower. A man who can keep his cool and stay understanding when things get tough is perfect for the rollercoaster ride of parenting.

2. Kindness and Compassion

A great dad isn’t just kind to his kids; he’s kind to everyone. Showing empathy and respect sets a fantastic example for children. So, look for someone who treats others with genuine kindness. It’s a quality that shines through in everything they do. I treasure this in my husband, and it’s one of the reasons I’m so grateful for him.

3. Responsibility

Dads juggle a lot, from diaper duty to helping with homework. A great one steps up and takes on these tasks without hesitation. As such, seek out a partner who’s dependable and responsible in his daily life because those traits will shine through in his role as a father. My husband switched from being a flight steward to running a food truck during the pandemic to support us—now that’s responsibility!

4. Playfulness

Life with kids is full of serious moments, but it should also be packed with play and laughter. A dad who can get on the floor, play with toys, and crack silly jokes creates joyful, lasting memories. Therefore, find someone who doesn’t mind acting a little goofy and loves to have fun. You’ll need those crazy games and activities to keep the kids laughing!

5. Communication Skills

Good communication is the secret of any strong relationship, especially when kids are involved. A great dad should talk openly and honestly to create a safe space for everyone to share their thoughts and feelings. Gone are the days when men had to be stoic and keep everything bottled up. Look for a partner open to communicating and listening actively, which will help build a strong and healthy family.

How a Father’s Qualities Impact Children

Great parenting shapes kids into great adults. So, choosing the right partner significantly impacts your child’s life. Here’s how a father’s qualities impact children:

• Emotional and social skills: Kids with patient and compassionate parents better understand and manage their emotions. They learn empathy and how to build friendships and generally have fewer behavioral issues. They also perform better academically and are more confident.¹
• Brain power: Playing with dad isn’t just fun—it’s educational. Playtime boosts creativity, problem-solving, and thinking skills. Involved dads also help their kids love learning and do better in school.²
• Confidence and security: A dad who listens and communicates well creates a safe and loving environment. This helps munchkins feel secure and builds their self-esteem, making them more confident about facing new challenges.³
• Lifelong benefits: The benefits of positive parenting last a lifetime. Adults with supportive and nurturing parents tend to have better mental health, stronger relationships, and more career success.⁴

Wrapping Up

The right partner will enrich your life and play a crucial role in shaping your children’s future as a great father. By prioritizing these qualities, you’re taking a meaningful step toward creating a loving and supportive environment for your family.

What traits do you think make a great father? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

1. Parents and caregivers are essential to children’s healthy development.” American Psychological Association, 2023. ↩︎
2. Kiderlin, S. “Involved dads help their kids love learning and do better in school.” CNBC, 2023. ↩︎
3. “Strong families: what they are, how they work.” Raising Children Network (Australia), 2023 ↩︎
4. Chen et al. “Parental Warmth and Flourishing in Mid-life.” Social Science & Medicine, 2019. ↩︎