Father’s Day is a time often associated with cards, gifts, and moments of celebration. But behind the tradition and social media posts lies a deeper, more meaningful opportunity, especially in the world of fostering.
Society has traditionally placed the weight of childcare on women, while men have often been cast in supporting or peripheral roles. These outdated stereotypes continue to influence how many men view their contribution to parenting, thereby sometimes underestimating or even diminishing their importance in a child’s life. However, modern lives and attitudes call for engaged, emotionally present, and resilient carers – roles in which men can and do excel.
This Father’s Day, we want to celebrate the powerful and transformative role that men can play in fostering. Whether as foster dads, stepfathers, grandfathers, uncles, or other supportive male figures, men provide stability, mentorship, and love that shape a child’s sense of belonging and self-worth.
At the same time, it’s important to acknowledge that Father’s Day doesn’t hold the same meaning for everyone. A recent YouGov poll suggests many dads themselves feel indifferent about the occasion. For some, the day may bring up complex emotions, especially for those who have lost a father, are estranged, or never had a father figure at all. This is particularly relevant in fostering, where children and young people may have mixed or painful associations with the idea of “Dad.”
It’s also a timely reminder that days like Father’s Day or Mother’s Day can be emotionally loaded, both for carers and young people. Being mindful of this, some are beginning to offer options to opt out of emails or targeted content around these days. Respecting this space for reflection or distance can be a vital act of care.
Yet, even within this complexity, Father’s Day presents a unique opportunity. It invites us to redefine what it means to be a father, and to broaden the narrative beyond biology or tradition. It’s a chance to recognise and uplift those who step into the fathering role with open hearts and steady hands, regardless of gender, background, or title.
So, whether you’re a foster dad celebrating with a young person for the first time, or one who consistently and quietly shows up every day, then this day is for you. Let’s take this moment to honour the often-unspoken contributions of men in fostering, and to celebrate the positive, nurturing father figures who are changing lives one day at a time.
Happy Father’s Day 😊
References
What to Brits really think about Father’s Day – https://business.yougov.com/content/52261-what-do-brits-really-think-about-fathers-day
Further Reading
Father’s Day Blog 2021 – https://ukfostering.org.uk/fathers-day-2021/
Help Your Boy To Become A Happy, Well-Rounded Young Man – https://ukfostering.org.uk/help-your-boy-to-become-a-happy-well-rounded-young-man/