Research shows that when fathers are engaged in children’s education, student grades and test scores improve, attendance increases, and students are more involved in school activities.
PINELLAS COUNTY — Dads play an integral role in a child’s development, health and educational performance. That impact does not end once a child reaches middle and high school. In fact, it becomes even more important.
According to the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse, research shows that when fathers are engaged in children’s education, student grades and test scores improve, attendance increases, and students are more involved in school activities. That involvement does not stop when a child moves to middle and high school.
Dads matter in middle and high school
It’s normal for middle and high school students to discourage their parents from coming to school, according to GreatSchools. But parent involvement is essential to a teenager’s academic success. Parent engagement is linked to achievement in the upper grades, just as it is in elementary school.
GreatSchools offers 10 tips, and dads can incorporate them:
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- Read the information on school policies and curriculum.
- Make sure you are subscribed to the school email newsletter or join a parent-to-parent network.
- Help your child turn their anxieties into positive action.
- Attend school events and stay involved in decisions about what classes to take.
- Once school starts, talk with your child about what happens at school every day.
- Listen to their worries, and work for changes when you think they are needed.
- Get to know several teachers.
- Don’t forget about the school counselors.
- Encourage your child to explore new sports, hobbies, or interests.
- Be alert to signs of depression or anxiety and seek help.
- Get more tips from GreatSchools
Dads in the school resources
Pinellas Fatherhood Collaborative
The Pinellas Fatherhood Collaborative works to bring a focus on fathers. The Collaborative’s mission is to promote father-inclusive community resources that will equip dads with the tools they need to shine in their caregiver role. For more information, visit bit.ly/fatherhoodcolab
National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse
The goals of the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse (NRFC) are to provide, facilitate, and disseminate current research and proven and innovative strategies that will encourage and strengthen fathers and families. For more information, visit fatherhood.gov/
Find research and resources that support all dads. For more information, visit bit.ly/PTAForMen
Provides resources to fathers to help impact student outcomes, increase family engagement and improve community support for students and schools. For more information, visit strongfathers.com/
The National Center for Fathering (NCF)
NCF strives to improve the lives of children and establish a positive fathering and family legacy that will impact future generations by inspiring and equipping fathers and father figures to be actively engaged in the life of every child. For more information, visit fathers.com/
