Children whose fathers read, play, sing and draw with them have a "small but significant" increase in educational outcomes in primary school, according to research which suggests just 10 minutes a day can make a difference.
Research led by the University of Leeds claims fathers have "a unique and significant effect" on children's educational outcomes.
According to the study, greater involvement of fathers before a child attends primary school gives children an educational advantage in their first year at school, while greater involvement at age five helps boost grades. The effect is slightly more pronounced in mathematics.
The study, which was funded by the Economic and Social Research Council, made a distinction between the influence of mothers and fathers. Fathers' involvement had an impact on educational achievement, while mothers had more impact on emotional and social behaviours.
So, it is recommended that fathers spend more time in fun activities with children.
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