Paternity is about being a responsible father

Throughout the United States, including in Arkansas, efforts are being made to engage fathers in the lives of their children. Among the groups that provide support to the fathers are schools, communities and various other organizations. These organizations provide support and services, and host events throughout the year to help fathers establish their paternity rights and make it possible for them to connect with each other and with their children.

The United States Department of Health & Human Services’ Administration for Children and Families Division offers the Responsible Fatherhood Program throughout the country to strengthen families and help fathers connect with their children. From chaperoning a child’s field trip, to reading books with their children, to coaching and playing sports, a father can do many things to maintain an active role in their children’s lives. Doing so will enable the father to take the concept of child support to a different level and play a positive role in the child’s growth.

The absence of a father in a child’s life is a problem facing many American families. The father can participate fully in his child’s life by protecting the him or her from social evils like drugs, truancy and criminal activity, as well as being a good role model.

Additionally, a father can also act as a mentor for other single-parent children and significantly reduce the adverse impact that the absence of a father in a child’s life can make. He can act as a mentor for promoting the concept of responsible fatherhood. Paternity is not just about bringing your child into this world, but is also about playing a positive role in the child’s upbringing.

Source: Fatherhood.gov, “Connect with Programs,” Accessed on July 28, 2014