Ideas for Fatherhood Programs

Fathers are an asset to their child's development, and communities can become an asset to a father's growth and development. Here are a few strategies for an effective fatherhood program:

• Have men in leadership roles in your program. However, keep in mind that women can play a key role in involving fathers and developing quality programs.
• Promote partnerships between fathers. Match up new dads with current participants and form peer support groups.
• Provide fathers with information on child development and parenting.
• Make it easy for fathers to attend activities. Have flexible schedules, provide or pay for transportation, and offer child care.
• Offer life skills training. Teach classes on parenting, relationships, anger management, and leadership.
• Acknowledge the important role of mothers.
• Encourage and nurture awareness and growth of racial/ethnic identity.
• Listen and learn from fathers. Survey fathers for their ideas and interests, and let them know you value their opinions.
• Recognize all kinds of fathers. From teen dads, to men who serve as father-figures, to incarcerated fathers, remember that all dads need support.

The Colorado Fatherhood Connection offers The Fatherhood Program Toolbox training to support the development of effective programs for fathers. For more information call 303/837-8466, and/or email - fatherhood@what-works.org