Developing a child’s literacy and math skills from a young age is a key part of fatherhood, according to the National Center for Family Literacy (NCFL).
It suggests that children benefit from their dad’s involvement in their education, both as teachers and role models.
Sharon Darling, president and founder of the organization, said: "Spending time together and learning as a family can be a simple, inexpensive and easy activity. It just requires a little time, imagination and creativity."
"The rewards are long-lasting for the family and have a long-term impact on the child’s academic success," she added.
The NCFL has come up with some parenting advice for dads to help them engage with their child’s educational needs.
It suggests teaching math skills by letting their youngster count the money to pay at the store, increasing oral language skills by sharing childhood stories and linking reading with excursions – bringing home a book about dinosaurs before a visit to the museum, for example.
Dr. Maxine Morris, an associate professor of teacher education at Missouri Southern University, recently told the Joplin Globe that when parents read to their child early on they are often better readers later in life.
