NCJ Number
200984
Date Published
August 2000
Length
59 pages
Annotation
This document from the Children’s Trust Fund of Massachusetts (CTF) is designed to promote positive interactions between fathers and their children so that children may grow up happy, healthy, and productive.
Abstract
CTF was created in 1988 by the State of Massachusetts’ Legislature in order to provide money, training, and programs to over 100 organizations that help families. The CTF works closely with fathers in order to provide them with the resources they need to be the best parents that they can be. The benefits of fathers being involved with their children include the fact that children grow up happier and healthier when fathers are involved in the raising and the nurturing of their children; varied problems are associated with absent fathers in the United States. This report presents a wide variety of fatherhood-related CTF programs and resources found throughout the State of Massachusetts, region by region, and a listing of a series of national resources and programs promoting fatherhood. A listing of internet sites for resources on fatherhood is followed by an extensive list of books about fathering. A series of activities for fathers to engage in with their children including 10 ways to be a better dad, developing an awareness of one’s child, and specific activities to do with children across a wide variety of ages groups are also presented. In addition, this report suggests eight steps for being a better listener, tips for non-married parents, and books for parents to share with their children.