Many fathers would like to become more involved with their children, but there are many factors that discourage this involvement. These factors include men's work commitments, and the general belief of friends and family that the responsibility for childrearing is the mother's. In some cases, mothers may even protect their caretaking domain and unconsciously discourage fathers from doing more. Additionally, many fathers feel that they do not have the skills and self-confidence necessary to become more involved in child care. Childrearing is not something they were trained for.
Many fathers lack adequate role models to demonstrate how to be involved with children.
There are many ways that caregivers can help promote father involvement. If you treat the mother as if she is the only person able to share knowledge about the child, you may be discouraging the father from answering, as well as from asking his own questions. Have parent conferences and meetings at times that both fathers and mothers can be present. If one or both parents work during the day, try to schedule an evening appointment. Basing your appointment exclusively on the time schedule of the mother can serve to exclude the father.