Dads building bonds through books

Monday, 16 June 2025 11:30

Dads in the Vale of Glamorgan are being encouraged to read with their children every day.

FRED (Fathers Reading Every Day) is designed to help fathers and male carers build lasting relationships with their kids, simply by spending a few minutes reading together.

The Flying Start team at Vale of Glamorgan Council, which delivers the programme locally, says the "simple but powerful" routine helps children to develop communication skills and gives them a better start in school and life.

Anne Brock, a Flying Start learning coach, said: "It has been really lovely meeting the dads and their children who have been involved with the FRED programme so far."

"Everyone seems to have enjoyed their reading journey, and I look forward to encouraging more dads and children to take part in the programme in the future."

The programme has received postive feedback from families taking part - one father said it had boosted his confidence while another said his daughter brings him books to read when he comes home from work.

Apart from literacy skills, the Flying Start team says the FRED scheme - which was developed by the Fatherhood Institute - also strengthens emotional bonds and creates space for "moments of joy, curiousity and imagination".

Cllr Eddie Williams, cabinet member for social care, added: "FRED is about more than books – it’s about connection and routine."

"This scheme shows just how this small daily habit can help build strong, positive relationships with dads and male carers, and gives children a real boost in terms of confidence, language skills and school readiness."