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The Importance of Fathers in the Healthy Development of Children
User Manual Series (2006)

Author(s):  Office on Child Abuse and Neglect Rosenberg, Wilcox

Year Published:  2006

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You are in section: Table of Contents Erratum Preface Acknowledgments 1 - Purpose and Overview 2 - Fathers…Children's Well-Being 3 - Fathers…Child Maltreatment 4 - Effective Fathering 5 - Fathers and Initial Assessment and Investigation 6 - Fathers and Case Planning 7 - Services for Fathers 8 - Fatherhood Programs 9 - Federal Fatherhood Initiatives Appendix A - Glossary of Terms Appendix B - Resource Listings Appendix C - State Telephone Numbers… Appendix D - Cultural Competence Self-Assessment… Appendix E - Tips for Dads Appendix F - Healthy Marriages

Boot Camp for New Dads (BCND)
Helping New Fathers

Formed in 1990 to help new fathers "hit the ground crawling," a few fathers, with their babies in their arms, held an orientation workshop for men about to become fathers. When the "rookies" expressed apprehension about caring for babies, they were handed a baby to hold for the first time. Several months later, the "rookies" returned as veterans with their own babies to orient the next group of men, who in turn returned as veterans.

BCND has improved over the years, but the basic premise—veteran dads showing "rookies" the ropes, with babies adding a serious dose of reality—has remained. It was started by a father who felt men would enjoy their babies more if they started off with a basic understanding of the challenges they would face, a few essential skills, and a sense of confidence. The veterans exemplify its effectiveness. BCND is rapidly developing into a national support network for men confronting the realities of fatherhood. This innovative, community-based program delivers support and education at the time when men are most receptive and in a manner that is very effective in preparing men to be dads.

With programs operating in over 200 communities across the country and a strong network of veterans, coaches, and supporters, BCND is positioned to help lead the development of a vibrant new culture of fatherhood throughout America. Its developing strength as an organization, couples with the opportunities facing it, enable a hopeful vision for the future of fathers, children, and families.

For more information, contact:

Boot Camp for New Dads
(Available in English or Spanish)
Susan Worsham, Program Coordinator
230 Commerce, Suite 210
Irvine, CA 92602
Phone: 714.838.9392
Fax: 714.838.9675
Email: Susan@newdads.com
Website: http://www.newdads.com

Back to Examples of Fatherhood Programs

You are in section: Table of Contents Erratum Preface Acknowledgments 1 - Purpose and Overview 2 - Fathers…Children's Well-Being 3 - Fathers…Child Maltreatment 4 - Effective Fathering 5 - Fathers and Initial Assessment and Investigation 6 - Fathers and Case Planning 7 - Services for Fathers 8 - Fatherhood Programs 9 - Federal Fatherhood Initiatives Appendix A - Glossary of Terms Appendix B - Resource Listings Appendix C - State Telephone Numbers… Appendix D - Cultural Competence Self-Assessment… Appendix E - Tips for Dads Appendix F - Healthy Marriages

This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare Information Gateway.

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Updated on October 9, 2009