Pattie Carroll, Human Development & Relationships Educator, UW-Madison Extension Dodge County
We know that fathers play a critical role in their child’s growth and development. Father involvement is important. For example, the relationship between a father and a child has a deep impact on children’s healthy development in language, thinking, physical, and social–emotional learning.
Pattie Carroll, Human Development and Relationships Educator has been working a state-wide needs assessment of fathers. Carroll says that previous research shows that children whose fathers are involved in their daily care, such as feeding, bathing, and playing together, tend to be more confident; and, as children grow older, they enjoy stronger social connections with peers. Furthermore, fathers who care for, nurture, and play with their babies actually raise children with higher IQs and children with better language and cognitive skills.
Carroll also says that the research shows that involved fathers enhance their children’s communication skills because they tend to ask children more questions than mothers, which builds vocabulary and conversational skills. Positive father involvement includes direct interaction with children, including caregiving and shared activities. As a result, a group of extension educators are offering a Father centered program. The program is intended for fathers of children between 0-12, but all fathers and father figures are welcome to attend.
Join Pattie Carroll and other Extension educators for a special fatherhood program called Focus on Fathers. Connect with other fathers as well! Explore parenting tips and learn ways to strengthen your relationship with your child. Topics include:
August 3 – Relaxing & Enjoying Your Children
August 10 – Helping Children Stand Up For Themselves
August 17 – Helping Children Build Their Confidence
August 24 – Helping Children Deal With Others
Sessions will be held via ZOOM on Tuesday evenings in August and will run from 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm. We hope you join us!
Register at https://tinyurl.com/FocusOnFathersAugust2021 or call the Extension office for more information at (920)386-3790.
