July 2012 Volume 2, Issue 1
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TOUCHTIME® for DADS and their BABIES
On June 20th, a Celebration of Dads took place in partnership with TouchTime® and MENFOLK at the Palmdale School Districts Early Childhood Education site. A large conference room was prepared where Dads were asked to come with their infant child and join as “Dr. Elaine” joyfully instructed Dads about the importance of touch and the use of TouchTime® in their everyday routines and rituals with their babies, while moms and others were given baby dolls to massage. Research has shown that when dads are more involved in parenting their children, providing affection, that children are more likely to be emotionally secure, confident to explore their surroundings, and form better social connections with their peers, as they grow older. (Child Welfare, government publications, 2006).
Rufino loves massaging Sebastian, and Andy said, "I started using "skin to skin" touch when my son Alexander was just born by placing him on my chest. That "tummy time" paid off... Just watch Alexander hold his head up high!!!
In short, fathers have a powerful and positive impact upon the development and health of children. Encourage dads’ participation. Show them what they can do before their baby can throw a football!
Dr. Elaine is the Executive Director of TouchTime International. She can be reached at drelaine@touchtime.org.
Charles Avila is the Founder of MENFOLK.He can be reached at charles@menfolk.org.
