With Dad In Mind: Creating an Atmosphere for Dads to Feel Included
By Lamont Jones
Fathers play a crucial role in the family, bringing unique strengths, perspectives, and forms of support vital to a child’s growth and well-being. However, despite these contributions, dads are often overlooked as valuable resources, sometimes cast as secondary figures in parenting. This perspective overlooks the rich benefits involved—fathers bring confidence-building, positive role modeling, and emotional support that strengthens a child’s foundation. Recognizing and valuing the role of fathers is essential to creating an inclusive family environment where both parents are empowered to contribute fully to their children’s lives.
Barriers Dads Face
Yet, many fathers encounter cultural barriers that discourage or limit their engagement in parenting. Stereotypes about men’s roles as “providers” or “disciplinarians” persist, creating expectations that minimize a father’s involvement in caregiving. Some fathers may face bias in workplaces that don’t offer paternity leave or flexible hours, limiting their ability to balance family responsibilities. In schools and communities, events and communications may unconsciously center around mothers, making fathers feel like outsiders in parenting spaces. These cultural barriers can discourage dads from fully engaging in their child’s life despite their desire to contribute.
Dads the Overcomers
Thankfully, fathers are finding ways to overcome these obstacles with the support of inclusive resources and peer networks. Father-focused support groups like parenting classes and fatherhood forums allow dads to connect, learn, and share experiences. These groups encourage fathers to discuss challenges openly, gain parenting skills, and build a community with other dads who understand their unique journey. Additionally, workplaces that adopt father-friendly policies such as flexible hours and paid paternity leave play a crucial role in normalizing father involvement and breaking down cultural barriers.
Everyone benefits when dads are empowered and given access to stay engaged in their children’s lives. Research shows that children with involved fathers have better social, emotional, and academic outcomes, and dads report greater personal fulfillment and stronger family bonds. By breaking down stereotypes, supporting father-friendly policies, and fostering inclusive communities, we create an environment where fathers can overcome societal challenges and contribute meaningfully to their children’s lives, especially connecting to their children’s educational journey. Embracing and empowering dads enriches family life and builds a more supportive and inclusive culture for all parents.
Speaker Overview: Lamont Jones
Lamont Jones is the Co-founder and CEO of Furthering Fathering, a Georgia-based organization that has been instrumental in supporting fathers and families. As a passionate advocate for fatherhood, Lamont has dedicated his career to creating an environment where fathers are valued and empowered to take an active role in their children's lives. He has been a leading voice in fatherhood advocacy, delivering workshops and training aimed at helping fathers navigate the challenges they face in today’s society.
Under Lamont’s leadership, Furthering Fathering has become a vital resource for fathers seeking connection, education, and empowerment. His organization provides fatherhood programs that offer peer support, life skills training, and the opportunity to build strong, lasting relationships with their children. Lamont’s work is rooted in the belief that when fathers are involved, families thrive and communities are transformed.
At the 26th International Families and Fathers Conference - Building Bridges, Lamont will share his expertise on creating inclusive atmospheres for fathers and exploring strategies to overcome societal barriers preventing dads from fully engaging in their children's lives. His dynamic presentation will emphasize the importance of recognizing fathers' invaluable contributions and how everyone benefits when fathers are given the tools and opportunities to succeed in their parenting journey.
For more information about Lamont and his work, visit Furthering Fathering.