A recent report published by the American Academy of Pediatrics proves the importance of fathers in the development of young children.
Engaged fathers are associated with better academic success, health, social skills and confidence. Their children also have less delinquency and reduced likelihood of substance abuse.
It really matters to get dads involved with children. They don't have to serve the same functions as mothers. It's great when fathers will jump in and change diapers and rock babies to sleep, but they can be involved in other ways. Daddies tend to be more playful with babies and tend to get more belly laughs. Fathers encourage their littles to climb to the top of the monkey bars and take risks on the playgrounds.
Encouraging all fathers to get involved with children will improve those children's lives. Giving fathers paid parental leave will help with this.
If your child's father is unavailable, this role can be filled by any male or person identifying as male in the child's life. Grandfathers, uncles, adopted fathers or males who are committed to the child's well being can assist in the positive development of children.
Listen in as Dr. Michael Yogman shares the importance of fathers (or father figures).
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Importance of Father Figures
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Michael W. Yogman serves as Chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Committee on Psychosocial Aspects of Child and Family Health and AAP’s Massachusetts Chapter Child Mental Health Task Force. He is an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and has practiced pediatrics in Cambridge, Massachusetts, for two decades after several years working full-time at Boston Children's Hospital with developmental behavioral pediatrics pioneer T. Berry Brazelton, MD. Dr. Yogman also serves as chair of the Boston Children’s Museum board of trustees.
Michael Yogman, MD, FAAP
Michael W. Yogman serves as Chair of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Committee on Psychosocial Aspects of Child and Family Health and AAP’s Massachusetts Chapter Child Mental Health Task Force. He is an assistant professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School and has practiced pediatrics in Cambridge, Massachusetts, for two decades after several years working full-time at Boston Children's Hospital with developmental behavioral pediatrics pioneer T. Berry Brazelton, MD. Dr. Yogman also serves as chair of the Boston Children’s Museum board of trustees.