This month we are celebrating all the fathers and father-figures in our lives. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly feels that a father’s interaction with his children has a positive influence on their development. For example, father involvement is associated with improved weight gain in preterm infants, improved breastfeeding rates, higher language skills, and higher academic achievement.

Talk to your child's pediatrician for ideas on how you can take a more active role in raising your children.

~Jennifer Shu, MD, FAAP
Medical Editor, HealthyChildren.org

Depressed fathers are less likely to play games, sing songs, or read to their children. Talk to your health care provider if you are in the 10% of fathers experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression.

Is there some way to involve my husband in the early breastfeeding process?