Promoting Fathers' Participation in Early Learning Centres

Abstract

Fathers' participation in Early Childhood Education (ECE) has been recognised to positively influence young children's and their families' wellbeing (Rollè et al., 2019, White et al., 2011). This study examined the influence of a father-focused program designed to increase their participation in the early childhood education setting where their child is learning. Four early childhood centres agreed to participate in the research. Twelve fathers of the centre's children volunteered to participate in the program that aimed to support fathers' interaction with early childhood centres. The findings suggested that such a father-focused program in ECE centres may improve fathers' overall participation in early childhood centres and contribute to enhanced father interaction with centres. The results are discussed within a parental partnership model, and the practical implications of the findings are highlighted.