Fathers matter. Whether it’s giving his baby a bath, learning how to braid a daughter’s hair, helping with virtual schooling, eating together with family, or cheering from the stands, dads are vital in the upbringing of their children.
A father’s influence continues to be important as children grow up. When dads talk with older kids about their daily lives, help them with college and career decisions, and share parenting wisdom with their adult kids, the impact is immeasurable.
Research tells us when dads are involved in the lives of their children, those children tend to be more psychologically and emotionally balanced and tend to have better social skills, higher grades and stronger parenting skills when they start their own families. When fathers are involved, children are less vulnerable to childhood poverty, substance abuse, juvenile delinquency and teen pregnancy.
June is Fatherhood Awareness Month, and Fairfax County is taking this opportunity to celebrate fathers. Join us!