While studies show that close parental involvement can have a strong influence on many positive outcomes, when it comes to education, it is usually the wife that is most involved (Allen & Daly, 2002). Studies show that when a father is also involved in the educational aspects of their children’s lives then they can achieve even more. Scheduling time to volunteer and support their children can be challenging, but it can pay big dividends in the overall academic and social/emotional well-being of the children. Research has found that men often have a desire to be involved in the education of their children, but often feel that they do not fit in or that they are unprepared for the activity (Barnes, 2016). Helping fathers overcome these barriers can give them a clearer path to helping their children in school and in life.
Involving fathers in schools requires sending a clear message that fathers are welcome and valued. Unfortunately, PTA—and parent engagement in general—is frequently associated with just moms. Change this mindset by making a deliberate effort to reach out to and connect with men. Add to current communications messaging tailored specifically to fathers and father figures.
Ideas for increasing male engagement at your school
- Emphasize that even volunteering ONCE during the year can make a difference!
- Set up a table at registration or back to school night. Have a display/sign with ideas for men to get involved. Encourage them to sign up to help in class, help with a field trip, or ask teachers how they can get involved as a volunteer
- Invite teachers at your school to find ways to include fathers as volunteers
- Host a yearly Dads and Donuts event (sometimes called Dudes and Donuts to be more inclusive for kids without a dad in the home)
- Talk to your administrator about a having a Dad’s talent assembly/night
- Hold some meetings at night and specifically invite men to attend to try and create an atmosphere where men will feel comfortable attending meetings in the future
Programs to help get men more involved at your school
- Watch DOGS Program – a ready-made program for you to schedule male volunteers at your school on a regular basis. Start-up cost is approximately $500
Click here for information on how to set up a program that is similar to the Watch DOGS program at your school, without the big price tag
- All-Pro Dad – a great program that facilitates monthly gatherings with dads and their kids