How Prenatal and Early Childhood Programs Can Include Dads from Day One

Dads play a critical role in their child's development, right from the start. Research shows that when dads are involved during pregnancy and in the early years, their children have better emotional regulation, stronger cognitive development, and healthier relationships. Yet many prenatal and early childhood programs unintentionally overlook dads during these critical formative years.

To truly support the whole family, programs must be intentional and proactive about father inclusion.

Here are practical ways prenatal and early childhood programs can connect with dads from day one.

1. Establish a Father-Inclusive Mindset

The first step is shifting the mindset of your staff and organization. Often, maternal and child health services default to serving moms, while treating dads as peripheral or unnecessary. Challenge this mindset by training staff to recognize the value dads bring, regardless of their living situation or relationship with the mom.

Encourage staff to ask about the dad’s role, listen to his concerns, and include him in conversations about the baby’s health and development. A father-inclusive mindset must be a core value, not an afterthought. National Fatherhood Initiative®’s (NFI’s) free Father Friendly Check-Up™ is a great tool that helps to accomplish this.

2. Invite Dads to Prenatal Appointments and Classes

Research on early childhood and brain development shows the positive, lifelong impact dads can have by engaging early in their children’s lives. Prenatal care is a powerful opportunity to include dads early. Encourage moms to bring the dad to doctor appointments, birthing classes, and home visits. Some dads simply need an invitation and reassurance that they’re welcome.

Provide literature and information in your appointments and classes specifically for dads, such as “12 Questions To Ask Before Your Baby Arrives,” “So You're A New Father Or About To Become One,” and “A Checklist For Keeping Your Child Safe From Newborn To Toddler.” The goal is to normalize and encourage father inclusion from the very beginning.

3. Use Father-Friendly Language and Materials

Take a fresh look at your program’s written and digital materials. Do your brochures, websites, or intake forms speak only to moms? Replace “parent” where appropriate with “mom and dad,” and make sure dads are depicted in images.

Even small changes—like addressing dads directly in class invitations or offering handouts titled “Tips for New Dads”—signal that they’re part of the parenting journey and not just bystanders.

4. Create Welcoming Spaces for Dads

Environment matters. If your program facility is decorated or structured in a way that feels exclusively maternal, it may send the message that dads aren’t welcome. Consider simple steps like including father-focused posters, offering changing tables in men’s restrooms, and designing waiting rooms that feel inclusive to all caregivers.

Train staff to greet and include dads when they arrive, rather than assuming they’re just dropping someone off. A welcoming, respectful environment increases the chances dads will engage and keep coming back.

5. Offer Programs and Services That Fit Dads’ Needs

Many dads face logistical barriers to involvement, such as work schedules, transportation, or lack of awareness about available services. Address these by offering flexible hours for home visits, virtual support groups, or father-focused workshops on evenings or weekends.

Consider peer-led fatherhood groups that focus on practical skills, such as infant care, managing stress, or co-parenting strategies. When programming is designed with dads in mind, they’re more likely to show up and keep coming back.

6. Support Co-Parenting

Strong co-parenting relationships benefit children, whether parents are together or not. Offer classes or counseling that help both parents understand their roles and collaborate for their child’s well-being. Equip dads to communicate effectively with the mom, especially during the perinatal period, which can be emotionally charged.

Help both parents understand that they’re a team, even when they don’t live under the same roof. When dads feel respected and included, they’re more likely to engage with their child and the mom.

7. Partner with Organizations That Reach Men

Expand your reach by partnering with local organizations that serve men, like job training programs, faith communities, or barbershops. Co-host events, offer informational sessions, or provide literature where dads already spend time (e.g., YMCA, youth sporting events, hardware stores, and bowling alleys). These partnerships create new pathways to reach dads who may not otherwise interact with prenatal or early childhood services.

Including dads from day one isn’t just a nice idea. It’s a vital part of building strong families and healthy communities. By being intentional and proactive in outreach, language, services, and partnerships, you can ensure dads are seen, heard, and empowered.

How father-inclusive is your program’s current mindset and approach?

What is one step you can take this week to better include dads from day one?