Review this infographic to learn about the importance of the father-child relationship. Explore what the research says about fathers who are involved in their child's life. Find out what Head Start and Early Head Start programs can do to partner with and engage fathers.
In Head Start and Early Head Start programs, we honor fathers and male role models who play a significant role in raising a child.
What does the research say?
Fathers who are involved in their young children’s lives:
- Parent differently than mothers do
- Support their child’s school readiness
- Contribute to the well-being of the family
- Show gains in their own development and life decisions
What can programs do to partner with fathers?
Observe and describe the child’s behavior to start a conversation with a father:
- “Shawna looks in your eyes and smiles when you pick her up. You two have such a loving bond!”
- “Jason knows so much about zoo animals. How do you help him learn about them?”
- “Miranda tells us she likes making tortillas at home. We’d like to do that in our class too. Would you be able to show us how?”
How can programs engage fathers?
Create a welcoming, father-friendly program environment. Show that you value and respect fathers:
- Show posters and pictures of fathers
- Promote activities fathers and children can do together
- Organize a field day or barbeque
Last Updated: June 23, 2020