A novel new programme run by the Department of Children and Family Services will give men an opportunity to examine their roles as fathers and men in the modern world.
According to the programme’s coordinator, Grace Hylton, the idea is to get fathers and potential fathers together to discuss issues such as parenting, masculinity, gender, domestic violence and HIV/AIDS prevention.
‘Hopefully they will be able to acquire some skills through the interaction that will help them be better individuals, better fathers and better partners,’ Mr. Hylton said.
The group held its first meeting on Wednesday and will continue to meet at the Joyce Hylton Family Life Center, North Sound Rd, for two hour sessions over the next 10 months.
He said men don’t often have an opportunity to discuss their roles as men and parents.
In the modern world, men have to be able to do more that just play the role of bread winner, he explained.
In the Cayman Islands, the tendency of men to consider their role as bread winners first, may be exacerbated because of the country’s seafaring heritage, he said.
‘Today, men are called to be able to show affection to their children and to be persons who children can look up to, listen to and talk with.’
This means fathers must have more skills and a better understanding of basic child development, he said.
‘It’s important to come with an open mind. When men gather with a particular goal in mind, you can only learn. The experience at the end of the day is usually a golden one.’
Mr. Grace also does educational presentations in Cayman Brac about fatherhood and family.
His next round of presentations there will be happening from 23 to 26 June.
Mr. Hylton emphasised that all men are welcome to the sessions.
‘Parenting, masculinity and gender issues are very important issues that affect our lives daily.
‘The group is not just about being fathers – it’s about the role of men in society.’
FYI
For further information on the father’s and men’s group, call Hylton Grace on 949-0290.
Pullout
‘The group is not just about being fathers – it’s about the role of men in society.’
– Grace Hylton, programme co-ordinator
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