New Survey Finds Most California Dads Overwhelmed by Fatherhood
First 5 California Reveals Dads Need Access to More Parenting Resources
SACRAMENTO, CA--(Marketwire - June 12, 2007) - Today's fathers may be more involved in
parenting than previous generations, but a new survey released by First 5 California found that
85 percent of California dads of young children feel overwhelmed by their
child's needs. Additionally, almost half (49%) of them were surprised by
how much they didn't know about raising their children.
"Making sure parents have access to valuable parenting information is a
priority for First 5 California," said Kris Perry, executive director of First 5 California. "We need
to continue to make educational resources available to both moms and dads,
so they can help their children succeed in school and life."
According to the survey, older dads more frequently feel they have nowhere
to go for parenting advice than younger dads. Fifty-one percent of dads
over age 40 have been at a loss for information on child rearing, compared
with 37 percent of their younger counterparts who have experienced this
feeling.
"This survey confirms the need for free, accessible parenting information, like
First 5 California's Kit for New Parents," said Perry. "This comprehensive
toolkit has all the information parents need to prepare for the joys and
challenges of parenthood."
The Kit for New Parents is
valued at $75, but is free to all new and expecting parents in California.
Parents can refer to the Kit for information on nutrition, safety, quality
child care, health, discipline and early learning. It provides practical
information in an easy-to-use manner and can help build parents' confidence
as they undertake their new role.
First 5 California has partnered with First 5 County Commissions,
hospitals, clinics, county agencies, home visitation programs and parenting
education classes to distribute the Kit to new parents across the state.
Parents and caregivers can also receive a free Kit by calling (800)
KIDS-025.
The survey was conducted by Kelton Research, a leading national polling
firm, between May 31 and June 6. Kelton interviewed via telephone 401
California dads over the age of 18 with children under age 6. Quotas were
set to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the total California
population age 18 and above.
In this particular study, the chances are 95 in 100 that a survey result
does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 4.9 percentage points from the
result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted with all
persons in the universe represented by the sample.
About First 5 California
First 5 California, also known as the California Children and Families
Commission, was established after voters passed Proposition 10 in November
1998, adding a 50 cents-per-pack tax on cigarettes to fund education,
health, childcare and other programs for expectant parents and children up
to age 5. For more information please visit www.first5california.com.
Contact Information: CONTACT:
Malina Brown
(310) 552-4150