Fathers Matter

Attachment is often talked about in terms of the mother-child relationship, but let’s not forget—fathers matter too. They play a huge role in helping kids feel secure, grow healthy, and thrive. We’re shining a light on the incredible impact fathers have in children’s lives.

Whether you’re called Dad, Daddy, Pops, Papa, Grandpa, or Uncle—you matter. This includes fathers by birth, kinship, step or foster parenting, adoption, and all the “fathers of the heart” who step up to support children. Some dads co-parent; others parent solo. The role of fathers—and the support they receive—looks different across cultures, communities, and circumstances. Fathers with disabilities or those in the LGBTQ+ community often face unique challenges. Some children have multiple father figures, while others may not know theirs. Some dads live with their kids; others parent from a distance. Some have strong support systems, while others face daunting obstacles.

ATTACh offers resources for fathers, parents, caregivers, and the professionals who support them—teachers, counselors, caseworkers, and more. These include live and on-demand courses, monthly support groups, and workshops at our annual conference. Our book, Healing Connections: A Community Approach to Childhood Trauma and Attachment, features Chapter 8: Fathers Matter, co-authored by Mark Rolon and Eddie Torres. They share powerful stories of love, loss, and resilience—and now use their lived experience to advocate for and support other fathers.

We are committed to equipping fathers and families with practical tools, advocacy, and community support. No matter your situation, please know this: at ATTACh, we see you, we value you, and we’re here to walk alongside you. Our goal is to provide resources and support that equip you for this vital role. We’d love to hear from you—what do you need? How can we serve you better?