Last week at the New England Fathering Conference, TFP Executive Director Ray Levy and Director of Programs John Badalament presented our work in advancing father engagement in healthcare settings to a focused and passionate crowd. The workshop shared a step-by-step approach to developing innovative fatherhood program in an urban, community-based health center using our work with fathers in prenatal care and our Dads Matter in Pediatrics programs as examples. Both presentations emphasized the process of engagement and collaboration with many staff members at obstetrics and pediatrics through relationship building, the development of shared goals, and from methods driven organically by staff needs and wishes.
Dr. Levy’s presentation highlighted the findings from the TFP Father Survey and the indications for change in the obstetric service. He pointed out that any changes toward a family-friendly approach that includes fathers in prenatal care will influence fathers’ level of involvement over multiple generations. As expected, many of the attendees were enthusiastic about the findings that revealed the strong interest fathers have in being involved and educated at the time of prenatal care. We are pleased that our recent presentations at conferences (including this one), have garnered interest from other healthcare centers to bring a prenatal father study and quality improvement program to their institutions.
John Badalament presented our Dads Matter in Pediatrics program that combines direct programing for fathers with staff training on father-inclusion. Besides working with the various staff and medical professionals on best practices for increasing father involvement in Pediatric care, John facilitates a Saturday morning group that has strongly appealed to fathers and their children. After fathers engage with their children in planned fun learning led by Child Development specialists, John leads a 30-minute teaching workshop with the fathers aimed at the development and discussion of specific fathering skills. This innovative program that influences fathers to be more involved with their children and in their medical care was very well received by a group of professionals working in healthcare who asked questions and offered personal anecdotes.
The NEFC was a great opportunity to connect with other professionals in the field, including National Healthy Start Director Kenn Harris, pictured above with John Badalament. We appreciate the opportunity to learn from others and to share our work as well. Thanks to all who attended for your enthusiasm and expertise!