Focus on Fathers/Me and My Dad

The Focus on Fathers/Me and My Dad programs began in Cape May County about four years ago with a core group of local dads. Through research and focus groups, educational programs and activities were developed to meet the needs of fathers in their changing role within the family. Reaching out to fathers is one more way Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station (NJAES) Cooperative Extension is helping to strengthen families.

More than 300 fathers participated in the initial research conducted to establish the program and more than 250 fathers and children have participated in programs and activities. Research results have been presented nationally to professional organizations such as the National Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences, the National Council of Family Relations, the Save the Children Foundation and the National Association for the Education of the Young Child.

Here's a sample of recent programs and activities:

Focus on Fathers Educational Programs:

• Communicating and Disciplining with Love
• Receiving Honor and Respect from your Children
• Teaching your Children that Money Doesn't Grow on Trees
• Dads in Cyberspace
• Dads, Kids, and Self Esteem
• Dads Involvement in Children's School Success

Activities for Fathers and Children:

• Me and My Dad in the Kitchen (nutrition, food safety, communication)
• Me and My Dad on the Challenge Course (team building, communication)
• Me and My Dad Action Activities (shared interests, communication)
• Me and My Dad in the Garden (science education, nutrition, communication)