On our first Father's Day Friday of 2009, I thought I'd give Guest Dads a break and point you to two interesting articles I read recently about dads' parenting style -- and whether the different ways they approach their children actually help keep a family in balance.

This piece from parenting.com talks about how moms are often quick to think dads are too lenient, rough, or noncommittal with their kids. That they're not protective enough. But often, their different approach works and helps kids learn to try new things.

This piece in the Dickinson Press, which responded to the parenting.com piece from the perspective of a single mom, argues that the laid-back, go-ahead-and-roughhouse approach of most dads instills an important resiliency in kids.

Your thoughts?