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Parent's Guide: Development
1.1 Mothers and Fathers are Both Important! 
Other sections in this chapter: Mothers & Fathers | Your Child's Brain | Help Your Baby Grow | Checklist for Growing Children | Developmental Warning Signs
Studies show the importance of a father's involvement:
- Their children get better grades in school.
- Their children are less likely to be involved with drugs and alcohol.
- Their children are more emotionally secure as a result of warm, close relationship with their father.
- Father/child interaction provides a high level of positive, playful activities
Both mother and father need to be involved with their children:
- The way a child feels about his father is similar to how the mother feels about the father
- Daughters are less likely to engage in sexual activity at an early age
Single Parents
If you are raising children alone, it can be very challenging and exhausting. It is so important to take care of yourself and to ask for help. Single parents do well and children do not suffer when the parent who has the major custody...
- Is financially stable.
- Has a support system - through friends, family, clubs or church.
- Works at a satisfying job.
- Has a positive social life
- Communicates well with the other parent.
- Uses the same discipline style as the other parent.
If there is no second parent, reach out to support groups for help.
Blended Families
Blending stepfamilies can be a challenge.
Some helpful tips:
- Biological parents should do most of the discipline until the stepparent has developed a strong relationship with the child.
- Family meetings help with communication
- Listening and talking can help with all the differences and adjustments.
- Classes and counseling can help the entire family.
Working Parents
The challenge of many parents today is to balance work and home. Make a difference in your child's life.
KEEP PARENTING A PRIORITY!
Try...
- Setting aside special one-on-one time each week for each child.
- Leaving pleasant, personal notes for children to find- not just chore lists.
- Making meals and other household tasks more simple and fun to share.
- Saying "no" to extra work that takes more time away from your children.
- Encouraging "family friendly" policies at work.
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Introduction
Parent's Guide Welcome
Table of Contents
Important Phone Numbers
Chapters
1. Development
2. Nutrition
3. Health & Safety
4. As Your Child Grows
5. Family Life
6. Resources
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