The Fatherhood Institute says that 'father engagement' should be included in Ofsted inspections because parental involvement can be too focused on the mother. Helping early years settings make fathers feel welcome was a prime motive behind their initiative, Fathers' Story Week (Nursery World, 6 May).
Traditionally at our nurseries we celebrate Fathers' Day by inviting dads for bacon-butty breakfasts. Last year this was especially badly attended at one setting. In the new spirit of self-evaluation, staff asked why. They had three conclusions:
- Mornings were an inconvenient time of day, as most fathers were at work
- Fathers had the misconception that they were only invited to come and eat a bacon butty rather than stay and join in
- Fathers might feel intimidated by an all-female staff - we now have a male cook and would love to employ male practitioners, but they rarely make applications.
This year, with excellent staff initiative, plans were made for a Fathers' Sports Day. This took place at 3pm on a Friday. The timing proved important, as many fathers were able to leave work early to attend.
It was a very successful event. At first there was some awkwardness between the staff and dads - staff admit they know mums better, as they're usually the ones who drop off and collect children and 'it's easier to talk to mums'. However, this was one of the main benefits of the event - staff and fathers were able to get to know each other better. There was even one dad attending who no-one had met before!
One of the senior staff told me she thought the sports day was an event that was successful at attracting and engaging fathers because there were activities for them to do with their children. They enjoyed racing together - indeed, some dads became a bit too competitive! - but this created a great atmosphere of fun. Any awkwardness was soon lost and the children (and dads) loved receiving certificates, cups and medals for taking part.
Fathers were pleased to have the opportunity to spend a couple of hours having fun with their children at nursery, at a time of the week that was convenient for them. Staff members commented that it was also nice to see the dads getting to know each other.
I have the impression that they will now feel more involved whenever their children are talking about nursery.
Saffia Farr is a director and manager of Bristol Childcare, a family-run nursery group established for 39 years. She has three young children and writes on parenting issues at www.saffiafarr.com.
