Raising children has traditionally been a mother's role. But modern sociology says a father's role in children's development is also important. Children abandoned and neglected by their fathers do not succeed as well as children in families where both parents are involved. An organization outside of Washington, DC offers a workshop that helps men become better fathers. In Hurlock, Maryland, at a place called River House, an American-Russian church community is running a retreat for fathers. Here fathers can get parental advice and have a chance to practice it on the spot right away. Businessman Pavel Katsevenko from Hagerstown, Maryland says coming to the retreat has been a good opportunity to spend quality time with his son.
It is very difficult to combine work with family. And we, fathers, have gathered today to discuss it. Many think that mother has to be with kids mostly, but I think when father is not involved, it leads to problems.
The program at River House is also open to children who don’t have fathers in their lives. For them, the program is an opportunity to interact with male role models. Family counselors also come to River House to see what practices work best in real life.
Chris Brigham bought the River House five years ago with the idea to help fathers become better parents.
