An Analysis of Father Involvement Practices in Early Childhood: Implications for Early Intervention Service Delivery

While research has shown the important role fathers play in young children’s lives, fathers are often not involved in Early Intervention services. This literature review will examine father involvement in early childhood programs in the United States, father involvement in early childhood programs in other countries, and staff perceptions of father involvement in early childhood programs. Findings include fathers preferred attending activities for all family members, and designed to support children’s growth and development. Fathers were not as likely to participate in men-only activities. Barriers to father involvement such as scheduling, lack of energy and resources, and child’s mother prefers to be more involved in activities were identified. Staff attitudes and perceptions of father involvement were found to help or hinder father involvement. Recommendations and implications for Early Intervention services are presented