Mission
Supporting men in developing and applying the fathering skills needed to be a positive influence to their children.
Goals
- To support men in their role as a father
- Increase father’s knowledge of child development
- Share the latest information on effective parenting techniques
- Help reduce family stress and encourage a loving parent relationship
- Build a social support network of fathers
Father Involvement In Baby’s Life Is Important:
- Babies show increased social and physical development when fathers or other nurturing men are consistently involved in raising them.
- Babies can have increased intelligence, confidence and independence when they are nurtured by mothers, fathers and other men.
- Babies are less frightened by strangers and show less stress and anxiety when fathers and mothers cuddle and whisper gently to them.
- Dads who are comfortable showing love contribute to a healthier society.
Why Focus on Fathers?
By creating a stable home environment in which fathers feel good about themselves, have a nurturing relationship with their baby and are supportive to mom, we can change the health and well-being of our children.
Specifically, we address:
- How to care for your baby — basic health, safety, nutrition, and emotional needs.
- Learning various methods to help your baby develop, play and learn.
- Practicing how to set limits, encourage independence, and use positive parenting techniques.
- Strengthening the father and mother relationship.
What Do We Offer?
Personal Visits
Our male family support staff and community mentors are available to visit fathers in the home, community, or workplace to be supportive in dealing with the baby. We can also assist with personal and family issues:
- Parenting skills
- Stress management
- Conflict resolution
- Child development
Group Activities
We organize social activities and parenting classes just for fathers to discuss parenting issues.
Fatherhood Support Groups
For more information, email fatherhood@familysupporthawaii.org.