UNICEF urges fathers to support early childhood development

David Duncan Acting Deputy Representative of UNICEF, in Accra on Monday  encouraged fathers to help to give their children the best start in life.

Duncan said that the first few years of a child’s life could have a profound impact on his or her future.

He said that the involvement of fathers was crucial in a child’s life.

“Studies show that children with involved nurturing and caring fathers have better educational outcomes and higher IQs, better linguistic and cognitive capacities, and are more confident, motivated and disciplined.

“When loved, well-nourished and cared for in a safe and stimulating environment, children have the chance to develop the skills they need to embrace opportunities and contribute positively to their communities.

“Just by spending quality time with your son or daughter – reading, playing, eating, and laughing together – you can play such a vital role in your child’s life,” Duncan said.

As part of the campaign to encourage dads to play critical roles in children’s early development, UNICEF has launched the Super Dads initiative to celebrate fatherhood.

It highlighted the importance of love, play, protection and good nutrition for the healthy development of young children’s brains.

The global initiative is to celebrate Father’s Day which is celebrated on June 18 in Ghana and over 80 countries in the world.

Ghana’s musical talent, Okyeame Kwame, has been selected to join stars like David Beckham, Mahershala Ali, and Hugh Jackman to take part in the initiative.

“For me, spending quality time with my children is the icing on the cake after a long day “I get to come home to them, play and help them with homework and I forget any issues I may be dealing with.

“It honestly is the best part of the day for me,” Kwame said.