Fathers Missing in Early Learning: UNICEF Report Raises Alarm
Nairobi – On the third Sunday of June, families around the world pause to celebrate Father’s Day. But while millions mark the occasion with cards, gifts, and gatherings, a new report from UNICEF casts a sobering shadow over the celebration.
According to the data, 40 million children between the ages of three and four do not receive basic early learning engagement from their fathers. The findings come from 74 countries surveyed by UNICEF, revealing a widespread parenting gap with lasting impact on child development.
“These numbers tell us that far too many young children are growing up without the emotional and cognitive support that comes from fathers being present and engaged,” said a UNICEF spokesperson. “It’s not just about playing. It’s about preparing children for life.”
The United Nations has long recognized the role of fathers in family life, especially when it comes to the mental and emotional health of children. Through initiatives like the Global Day of Parents, observed annually on June , the UN highlights the importance of both parents in raising secure, educated, and emotionally stable children.
Father’s Day, widely observed in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and others, offers a moment to reflect on the broader role of fatherhood beyond tradition and into daily interaction. But the UNICEF report reveals a disconnect between the symbolic recognition and the everyday reality in many homes.
The research focused on whether fathers played with their children, read books with them, or sang songs simple but powerful activities proven to support early learning. In too many cases, that kind of interaction is missing.
“Engaged fatherhood is not optional. It’s a core part of childhood development,” the UNICEF report concluded, calling for more awareness, workplace support, and national policies that encourage active parenting for fathers.
In Kenya, hotels like Novotel Nairobi Westlands hosted Father’s Day events with special meals and family activities celebrations that spotlight the joys of fatherhood. But behind the scenes, experts say real change will only come when engagement becomes routine, not rare.
The data also suggested that societal norms and work pressures contribute to the lack of paternal involvement. In households where fathers are present but uninvolved, children often lag behind in emotional regulation, language skills, and school readiness.
UNICEF’s findings support earlier studies showing that children with involved fathers perform better academically and exhibit stronger social skills. The call now, they say, is for policymakers, communities, and families to treat fatherly engagement not as a luxury, but a necessity.
As Father’s Day 2025 passes, global institutions urge fathers to show up not just for celebrations but every day, in the lives of their children.
