D is for dad

Fathers are getting more involved in their children's lives, even venturing into traditional "mom territories," such as dropping the kids off at school and attending teacher conferences, observes psychologist Stephan Poulter.

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Poulter, author of "Father Your Son: How to Become the Father You've Always Wanted To Be" (McGraw-Hill), says there are tangible benefits to fathers becoming deeply entrenched in their children's academic lives.

"First, it shows them you care," he says. "Your involvement in such a major part of their lives builds their self-esteem and thus their success in school and, ultimately, adulthood. Second, it shows them that education matters to you. And when it matters to dad, it usually matters to kids, too."

Some of Poulter's suggestions for successful parental involvement - the tips work for mothers, too, he adds - include:

--From the Tuesday, September 28, 2004 printed edition of the Augusta Chronicle