Information meeting for fathers

By Richie Mccarthy

A special information meeting for stay-at-home fathers who find themselves more involved with raising their families will be held in Galway on November 17.

Whether fathers do shift work, have voluntarily left full time employment, or have been made redundant, more and more men are participating in a new work-life arrangement where they face the joys and challenges of raising their families.

Having become aware of this trend, Galway City and County Childcare Committee will host an information meeting for fathers on Tuesday, November 17 in the Menlo Park Hotel at 10.30am. The purpose of the meeting is to find out if fathers are interested in availing of some of the supports available through the Galway City and County Childcare Committee.

Adam Brophy, author of the “It’s a Dad’s Life” column in the Irish Times will be a guest speaker and will share some of his own experiences as a stay at home dad.

Jason Craughwell, co-ordinator of the Galway City Sports Partnership, will be available to give information about organising activities through the Sports Partnership, while Séamus Morrissey, coordinator of Incredible Years Galway will address behaviour management issues. Pádraig Kelly, development officer, Galway City and County Childcare Committee will chair the event.

“Until recently, our focus was mainly on women but we have become aware recently that more fathers are taking part in the day-to-day care of their children,” says Mary Giblin, co-ordinator, Galway City and County Childcare Committee. “This meeting will give dads the opportunity to let us know what supports they require. For instance, they might want some practical information on topics such as play and activities, sports, networking, cooking healthy meals or managing challenging behaviour.”

Fathers are welcome to bring their children along to the meeting. Phone 091-752039 or email mail@galwaychildcare.com to book a place.

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