When the world talks about rearing children, the tone is decidedly feminine. Despite the growing number of fathers in traditional or single parent families who participate in child-care, resources specifically focusing on fathers are often missing. It is especially true for fathers of children with disabilities. Three Twin Cities men recently acknowledged the lack of materials targeted toward fathers. They offered suggestions, based on their experiences, about how fathers can become more involved in the lives of their children with disabilities. (Author abstract)
Designed for policymakers, this fact sheet discusses the characteristics of incarcerated fathers, the impact of a father's incarceration on his ability to pay child support, and strategies that can be implemented to modify child support obligations and to support father-child relationships. Answers to questions concerning incarcerated fathers and relationships with their children are also provided.
The timing is right--states and communities have unprecedented opportunities to invest in services and develop policies that help low-income fathers become the emotional and financial providers that their children need and deserve. Research has underscored theimportance of fathers in child development. Children with involved fathers are less likely to become teen parents, be involved with the juvenile justice systemand are more likely to perform better in school. However, recent reforms in welfare and child support have focused almost exclusively on helping mothersmove off welfare, without…
Fathers play a critical role in the development of their children; however, many fathers are uncertain about the responsibilities and privileges associated with this role. Children need fathers who love and care for them on a consistent basis. The latest research indicates that fathers who are actively involved in raising their children can make a positive and lasting difference in their lives. In contrast, this same research reveals a number of potentially negative outcomes for children whose fathers are not involved. This list contains 20 reasons why a father needs to be an active…
As parents, fathers have a unique opportunity to shape the lives of their children. Numerous factors contribute to a child's growth and development; however, among the most important are the daily interactions that take place between a father and child. Communication processes lie at the heart of these daily interactions. Fathers, husbands, and men in general, are often portrayed as not being good communicators, yet it is obvious that fathers are capable of communicating effectively with their children. Being an effective communicator, especially with young children, requires patience,…
What constitutes responsible fatherhood? Responsible fatherhood cannot be proven with a blood test, nor does it consist of simply providing a paycheck. Responsible fatherhood cannot be reduced to a single dimension. It involves commitment, self-sacrifice, integrity, and unconditional love. Responsible fathers are concerned with the well-being of their children, and their desire is to see their children succeed in all areas of life. This fact sheet provides a description of the framework developed by Ken Canfield, President of the National Center for Fathering, that summarizes the growing body…
This fact sheet provides a description of the characteristics that make fathers not only essential to the healthy growth and development of their children but also essential partners who share parenting with the mother of their children.
This fact sheet discusses the transition men make as they accept becoming a father and their unique development as fathers during the first two years of fatherhood. Topics include The Father's Self-concept and Self-esteem, Mother/Father Roles and Communication, Parenting Attitudes and Stress, Father's Changing Relationship with His Parents, and Support and Stress in the Community.
Brief
This information sheet discusses the balance fathers need to find between work obligations and family responsibilities, and proposes a new perspective that integrates career choices with family involvement. Key considerations that fathers should think about are listed, along with actions fathers can take to make sure they are balancing work and family, criteria for evaluating a family-friendly workplace, and tips for connecting with children.
Brief
With advice to fathers ranging from how to speak to toddlers so that they listen, to how to avoid gender stereotyping in young children, to how to maintain a connection with teenagers, FatherNeed is a resource for all dads -- including divorced fathers, fathers of adopted children, stepfathers, and fathers of special-needs children -- as well as moms who want kids who are meaningfully connected to their fathers. (Author abstract, modified)
