Increase Training for Fathers on Neuro-Nurturing
Return to: ZOOM-Increase Fathers Supporting Neuro-Nurturing in Their Babies
Fathers have a very important role in the neurodevelopment of infants and their early relational health. Yet, too often, fathers are often not nearly as involved in the types of positive, nurturing interactions that support the development of the baby's brain and secure attachments. In many cases, fathers want to be the best influence they can be, but they lack a basic understanding of early brain development and attachment, and they lack the confidence to know what to do in this unfamiliar role..
Contents
Background
For generations, most of the focus on newborns and infants has focused on the mother. While the mother's role is undeniably important, and it includes things like breastfeeding that the father can't do, our infants, families and society are missing a powerful opportunity to help our infants start their lives on a solid foundation of brain development, attachment, and resilience. Since many men in today's society grew up without a good father role model, it is not surprising that they don't know how to best support the development of their baby. One of the biggest needs is for fathers to access and participate in a variety of ways to be trained in Neuro-Nurturing.
Tools and Resources Recursos en español
There are many types of online resources that can be viewed on a computer or phone, or these online lessons can be integrated into a group for expecting and new fathers. Research shows that the best time to train an expecting father is before the baby is born.
Utah State University just released an excellent series of videos on early childhood that can be used in a variety of way -- for mothers, fathers or other partners.
The Basics has a wealth of information and activities for boosting brain develop of infants and toddlers
The Alberta Family Wellness Initiative has many resources
Promising Practices and Case Studies
Invite expecting fathers to an informal dinner with other expecting fathers
Scorecard Building
Possible Objective Details
Possible Measures
Actions to Take
Actions for Coalitions
Actions for Individuals
