Fathers

Fathers play a crucial role linked to positive outcomes for the family.

The period from conception to the age of 2 is an important time for child development and experiences during this period can influence the rest of the child’s life. Relationships between fathers and their children matter from pregnancy onwards. For example:

• Fathers who are supportive of breastfeeding help mothers to feel more confident and likely to succeed at breastfeeding
• Fathers who are affectionate, supportive and involved make a huge impact on their child’s brain, speech and social development, and can positively influence their child’s social, academic and economic wellbeing.
• Fathers also play a crucial role in supporting the health and wellbeing of mothers, and close bonds between fathers and their children are linked to positive outcomes for fathers themselves who are happier, healthier, have fewer mental health problems, and are more productive at work.
• Fathers who are affectionate, supportive and involved make a huge impact on their child’s brain, speech and social development, and can positively influence their child’s social, academic and economic wellbeing.
• Fathers also play a crucial role in supporting the health and wellbeing of mothers, and close bonds between fathers and their children are linked to positive outcomes for fathers themselves who are happier, healthier, have fewer mental health problems, and are more productive at work.

The period from conception to the age of 2 is an important time for child development and experiences during this time can influence the rest of a child’s life. Relationships between dads and their children matter from day 1.

• Visit the Hertfordshire support for Dads webpage

Useful resources:

• iHV: How dads can get involved
• iHV: Top tips for dads
• iHV: Emotional health and wellbeing
• Looking after yourself – dads, co-parents and partners