What if dad works a lot or doesn't live with his kids?
Many people assume that time is the key when it comes to dads improving their bond with their kids, but that's not necessarily true.
'The quality of the time spent is important - hours aren't necessarily the thing,' says Dr Helen Barrett, psychologist and Honorary Fellow at Birkbeck, London. 'In fact, the way a couple work together is also important to the way your kids relate to you.'
And David Bartlett agrees: 'It really doesn't matter if the dad is living with the mum - the relationship a child's mum and dad have with each other is important no matter who the child lives with.'
We forget that kids are very good at picking up on the moods and relationships between adults. 'Babies notice very early how mum and dad respond to each other,' says Helen Barrett. 'Even if parents pretend to be happy together, kids will notice as they grow up.'
Stay civil with the ex
This applies to separated parents as well as regular couples. 'It really helps children when separated couples continue to interact with each other as normally as possible,' says Helen. 'Continuity is important to a child, so being able to tell mum what they did today with their dad is really important.'
And this is where separated parents often find it tougher. 'As a single mum, it can be really difficult to hear about the great day your son or daughter has had with their dad,' says Helen. 'But even though you might hate listening, your child will benefit in the long run. You mustn't stop them telling you what they've been up to.'
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