Webinar
The important role of fathers in society has been increasingly documented in recent research and by experts working with families, but it has not gotten the attention it needs from a broader range of policymakers and practitioners. This day-long forum, available to watch, sought to 1) share research and ideas, highlight promising practice, and explore policy opportunities to increase the engagement of both fathers with their children and social service organizations with fathers; and 2) raise awareness about the importance of fathers in helping children and families achieve their full…
Fatherhood in America is changing. Today, fathers who live with their children are taking a more active role in caring for them and helping out around the house, and the ranks of single fathers have grown significantly in recent decades. At the same time, more and more children are growing up without a father in the home. The changing role of fathers has introduced new challenges as dads juggle the competing demands of family and work. Here are some key findings about fathers from Pew Research Center. (Author introduction modified)
Other, Fact Sheet
Have you ever wished that your child came with an instruction manual? Sesame Street Tool Kits are the next best things. They provide opportunities to build closeness and confidence, make learning fun, and keep your child's world safe and secure.Topics include: asthma, autism, divorce, finances, healthy habits, illness, incarceration, military families, school readiness, and more. (Author abstract modified)
Visitation can be an important and meaningful experience for incarcerated parents and their children, but it can also be a source of stress and anxiety when parents’ or children’s expectations do not align with what ends up happening. Many aspects of visitation are outside of the control of an incarcerated parent, but there are things you can do to anticipate problems and reduce stress to make visitation a positive and beneficial experience for everyone involved. Below are things to consider when planning for a visit from your child. If you do not know the answer to a question, think about…
These tips help parents and caregivers carry out the recommended practices described in the Institute of Education Sciences Educator’s practice guide, Foundational Skills to Support Reading for Understanding in Kindergarten Through 3rd Grade. Each tip highlights evidence-based practices from classroom settings that could also help parents or caregivers develop their children’s reading at home. (Author abstract)
Other, Fact Sheet
The incarceration of a loved one can be very overwhelming for both children and caregivers. It can bring about big changes and transitions. In simple everyday ways, you can comfort your child and guide her through these tough moments. With your love and support she can get through anything that comes her way. Here are some tools to help you with the changes your child is going through. (Author abstract)
Other, Fact Sheet
Divorce can be a big challenge for both children and parents. Though times may be difficult, children can emerge feeling loved and supported. You can all grow through these family changes and discover just how strong you really are. You are not alone. Family, friends, neighbors, and others are there to offer support. Here are some tools to help your child through your divorce.(Author abstract)
Other, Fact Sheet
In the U.S., 1 in 68 children is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In fact, almost every school and university in the country has students with autism. While the diagnosis is common, public understanding of autism is not. The lack of understanding around the condition contributes to discrimination, verbal abuse, even physical violence. A recent study reveals that children with autism are five times more likely to be bullied than their peers—treatment no child should endure. While the differences between people with autism and their peers may seem significant, children share…
Every parent eventually faces the decision to leave his or her child home alone for the first time. This factsheet provides some questions for parents to consider before leaving their children home alone as well as tips to help make the experience safe and successful for all. Resources for more information are also included. (Author abstract)
All parents home school. And, in fact, even if parents send their children off to school to learn, they are almost singlehandedly the only factor that matters in their kids’ educational success. Paul E. Barton of the Educational Testing Service (which administers the GRE among other standardized tests) wrote a piece called “America’s Smallest School: The Family.” He has estimated that about 90 percent of the difference in schools’ proficiencies can be explained by five factors: the number of days students are absent from school, the number of hours students spend watching television, the…
