The evidence shows that fathers who have caring and loving relationships with their children have a major impact on how well their children learn and grow. 

Nurturing Fathers’ Programs bring together men from all family circumstances (custodial, non-custodial, step-fathers, new fathers) to explore what it takes to be their child’s nurturer and teacher. FNC offers both in person and virtual programs (via Zoom). 

As a group, participants revisit their experiences with their own fathers, and with the guidance of FNC facilitators, come to understand what their children need from them – which they might not have received themselves as they were growing up.

Fathers learn how important it is to provide loving praise and a nurturing and secure environment so that their children gain self-esteem and confidence. 

The program also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive and supportive co-parenting relationship with the child(ren)’s mother, whether the parents are together or separated.

FNC offers multiple Nurturing Fathers’ Programs each year, many in collaboration with the Department of Children and Families (DCF). Please see the Nurturing Program Calendar for a full listing. Additional programs are offered across Massachusetts by organizations trained by our staff. 

To learn more, contact our Nurturing Fathers’ Program Director, John O’Neil, or our Nurturing Program Specialist/Trainer, LaWaun Curry.

To hear from a young father about his experience in the Nurturing Father’s Program during the pandemic, see our “Ryan’s Story” video.  (3 mins, 30 secs)