Parenting - Dads Make a Difference

Dads Make a Difference

Families in Canada have changed in big ways over the last 30 years.

In many families, both parents work. In some families, only the father works. In other families, the father stays home to look after the children while the mother goes to work. Some fathers do not live with their children; other fathers are single parents and some may be stepfathers.

Being a father is an experience full of many challenges and takes a lot of hard work. You may feel stressed. You may even feel guilty that you're not doing enough with your child. Other times you'll feel great. This is all normal.

Whatever situation you are in as a father, you are important to your child. Your child will feel safe, secure and loved when you spend time with them. Parenting research shows that involved fathers make a difference in their child's life!

When you are highly involved in your child's life, they are:

� More likely to enjoy school, do well at school and graduate

� Be better at solving problems

� More likely to do a better job of dealing with stress and frustration

� More likely to have good friendships

� Less likely to be depressed

� More likely to have a successful career as an adult

� Happier with life in general when they are adults

Research shows that men who are involved fathers:

� Feel more self confident and effective as parents

� Enjoy better relationships with their children

� Feel more connected to their families

� Are more satisfied with their lives

The whole family benefits when you are an involved father! When a mother feels supported by the baby's father, she is more patient, flexible, sensitive and available to her children. There are many ways you can make a difference in your child's life. You have what it takes to be a great father! Be involved!

Tips for Involved Fathers
Programs & Resources

Reference: Father Involvement Initiative- Ontario Network (2002). The Effects of Father Involvement: A Summary of the Research. Guelph: Allen, Sarah & Daly, K.

Parenting can be a challenge. We can help.

For more information or to speak with a Public Health Nurse, please contact

York Region Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653
TTY 1-866-252-9933

Dad's Make a Difference | Tips for Fathers