The NBH MEN-tors program is designed for a father or a father-figure to be able to come to school and volunteer for the day. (Volunteers will receive 8 hours for the day.) Dads will be given a schedule that will allow them to spend time in their child's classroom and special areas, along with helping in the lunch room and monitoring hallways. Monitoring helps with school security and helps prevent bullying. Dads also have their pictures taken for a special volunteer board and receive a t-shirt to wear any time they are volunteering at the school. Dads will have the chance to interact with other children as well and this can be translated into mentoring opportunities in the future. Dads and their children feel a sense of pride and learn a lot more about their child's school life. Along with volunteering at least one day a year, this program will spearhead other volunteer opportunities such as:
- Donuts with Dad
- Family fun night
- Other events in which Dads can be present at school.
According to the National Center for Fathering,
20 million children are living in fatherless homes.
In homes without fathers, kids are:
- 44% more likely to raised in poverty.
- 10 times more likely to abuse chemical substances.
- 9 times more likely to drop out of school.
- 20 times more likely to be incarcerated.
Children who have fathers who are involved:
- have higher academic achievement.
- have less behavioral problems in school.
- (girls) have higher self esteem.
- show an increase in curiosity and problem-solving capacity.
TIPS FOR DADS
At Home:
- Show interest in things that interest your child.
- Learn about what they're learning about.
- Help them with their homework.
- Limit TV and other electronic device times.
- Spend time reading to your children
*(Bonding and learning occurs during these times)
At School:
- Sign up and volunteer with other fathers/father-figures.
- NBH MEN-tors is a great place to start!
- There are plenty of areas to get involved.
- Take time to get to know your child's teacher.
- Parents and teachers are partners in the child's education.
In the Community:
- Help coach a sport in which your child participates.
- Volunteer to help your child's involvement in service activities.
- Take time for family outings.
- Experience new things together as a family.
