Fatherhood takes men on an individual journey

By Lethbridge Herald on June 14, 2025.

Joe Manio
Lethbridge Herald
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Father’s Day is an annual day set aside to honour all fathers, as well as fatherhood, paternal bonds; and the far-reaching influence of fathers on society. While Mother’s Day (celebrated a month earlier in May) is considered a more widely celebrated occasion, with commercial aspects and cultural traditions, Father’s Day is typically marked by more personal gestures and familial activities.

Michael Kawchuck and wife Brenna Scott of Lethbridge welcomed their first child, Sophie, on March 28. He’s looking forward to simply spending time with wife and child on his very first Father’s Day Sunday. 

“It has been something I have looked forward to for a long time,” says Kawchuck. “I was worried about Brenna and her health as she went through the trials of pregnancy. I also read a lot of what you can go through. Happily Sophie has not caused too many concerns.

Becoming a first-time father is a transformative experience that profoundly impacts a man’s life, regardless of their age. It marks a shift in priorities, responsibilities, and often, a reassessment of one’s place in the world. 

Fatherhood doesn’t come with any manual, although there have been numerous books written about the subject. There isn’t a single, universal way to navigate the journey of becoming a new father. Each individual’s experience is unique, influenced by personal circumstances, cultural background, and the specific dynamics of their family. Furthermore modern-day fathers face challenges that weren’t around just over a generation ago. 

“I am lucky to have a number of men in my life that I look up to at different stages guiding me. It has been fun to share stories. Putting it all together has been a rewarding experience,” says Kawchuck.

New fathers today face increased pressure to be involved in child rearing and to balance work and family, which wasn’t always the expectation before 2000. They experience greater demands on their time and energy, potentially leading to exhaustion and changes in their romantic relationships. Additionally, they may struggle with identity changes, lack of sleep, and feelings of lack of connection to the baby. Kawchuk’s wife, however, says his job as an investment advisor eased his transition to his new role as a father.

“In Mike’s career he is often helping his clients plan for the future which plays into his role as a new Dad really well,” says Scott. “I would also say I am grateful his role is flexible for ‘dad duties’ when needed.

Besides books, new fathers today can find support through community groups, online resources, and even specialized programs. Father support groups, online communities, and websites offer a space for men to connect, share experiences, and learn from others in similar situations. The Family Centre (FC)  in Lethbridge offers a variety of such programs to help fathers navigate the journey.

“We want fathers, whether soon-to-be, new, or in-progress, to know that being a father is one of the most important roles you will ever take on, and it’s okay not to have all the answers,” says Executive Director Maral Kiani Tari. 

“There is no single ‘right’ way to be a dad. What truly matters is showing up, being present, and being open to learning and growing alongside your child.

Family Centre’s father-focused programs encompass a wide range of supports designed to foster strong, healthy relationships between dads (or father figures) and their children, while also equipping them with practical parenting tools.

Programs like ‘Me & My Dad’ and ‘Dad and Kids’ events provide opportunities for connection through play, activities, and shared experiences, which help build trust, communication, and emotional bonds. FC’s ‘Super Dads Super Kids (SDSK)’ program offers a deeper, structured approach through an 8-week curriculum that covers essential parenting topics such as child development, emotional and mental well-being, discipline, communication, physical health, injury prevention, and balancing work and family life.

“Seeking support is not a sign of weakness, it’s a sign of strength, love, and commitment to your child, your family, and your community. At Family Centre, we’re here to walk alongside you with programs, resources, and a welcoming space where you’re never alone,” says Tari.