10 Ways Family Support Staff Successfully Engage Fathers

We Asked Family Support Staff: “What is one thing you do to intentionally engage fathers in your work?”

More than 160 professionals responded to that question, sharing practical strategies they use every day to connect with fathers, strengthen families, and support positive parent-child relationships. While each response reflects a unique approach, several common themes emerged. Together, they offer valuable peer-to-peer learning for anyone looking to deepen father engagement in their own work.

1. Invite Fathers Early and Often

Many fathers face practical barriers to participation, especially work schedules. Family support professionals are responding with flexibility, offering evening visits, weekend events, and scheduling appointments when fathers are most likely to be available. Meeting fathers where they are – literally and figuratively – can make all the difference.

2. Make Participation Accessible

Many fathers face practical barriers to participation, especially work schedules. Family support professionals are responding with flexibility, offering evening visits, weekend events, and scheduling appointments when fathers are most likely to be available. Meeting fathers where they are – literally and figuratively – can make all the difference.

3. Bring Resources Designed for Fathers

Many respondents described using father-focused curriculum, books, activities, and informational materials. Some leave resources behind when fathers cannot attend visits. Others create welcome bags, “dad bags,” or folders specifically for fathers. These materials help fathers see themselves reflected in the program and reinforce that their participation matters.

4. Include Fathers as Equal Partners

A recurring theme was the importance of speaking directly to fathers and actively including them in conversations. Respondents described asking fathers about their goals, inviting their input during visits, and involving them in assessments and decision-making.

5. Build Genuine Relationships

Successful engagement often starts with connection. Professionals shared strategies such as asking about favorite music, using humor, discussing current events, learning about personal interests, and simply listening. One respondent summed it up in a single word: “Listen.” Authentic relationships create the foundation for meaningful engagement.

6. Create Opportunities for Father-Child Connection

Many professionals use hands-on activities to strengthen the bond between fathers and their children. They bring books, games, developmental activities, art projects, and play-based experiences that encourage interaction and connection. One respondent described intentionally creating opportunities for fathers and children to read together, play together, and build healthy attachment.

7. Recognize Fathers’ Strengths

Many responses focused on affirmation. Professionals intentionally highlight fathers’ strengths, acknowledge their contributions, and reinforce the value of their role. Comments such as “Remind them they are just as important as moms” reflected a commitment to recognizing fathers as essential caregivers. Strength-based engagement helps fathers build confidence and stay involved.

8. Support Co-Parenting

Several respondents described engaging fathers through healthy co-parenting conversations and activities. From co-parent questionnaires to shared decision-making discussions, professionals are helping caregivers work together in support of their children. Strong co-parenting relationships can create more opportunities for fathers to stay engaged and connected.

9. Create Spaces Just for Fathers

Many programs are creating dedicated opportunities for fathers to connect with one another. Respondents mentioned fatherhood groups, Father’s Day celebrations, welcome events, and father-centered activities. One professional shared that they intentionally create spaces where fathers can “connect, learn, and build relationships with their children without feeling judged.” These spaces foster belonging, peer support, and community.

10. Stay Connected Between Visits

Father engagement doesn’t stop when a visit ends. Many professionals use group texts, direct messages, photos, invitations, and follow-up materials to keep fathers informed and involved. One respondent described sending fathers a text with a photo of their child and a summary of what was covered during a visit they could not attend. These small touchpoints help maintain relationships and reinforce engagement over time.

Learning From One Another

The responses shared by family support staff make one thing clear: there is no single formula for engaging fathers. Instead, successful engagement is built on intentionality, flexibility, respect, and relationship-building. Whether it’s adjusting a schedule, bringing a father-focused activity, sending a follow-up text, or simply making sure a father feels welcomed, these small actions can have a meaningful impact.

Thank you to everyone who shared their ideas. By learning from one another, we can continue to strengthen father engagement and support positive outcomes for children and families across Massachusetts.

About the 30 for 30 Fatherhood Series

This story is part of 30 Stories for 30 Years, marking 30 years of the Children’s Trust Fatherhood Initiative. The series highlights how professionals and organizations across Massachusetts support father involvement, healthy co-parenting, and stronger parenting partnerships as part of upstream prevention.