Expanding Fathers' Participation in Childrearing to Address Low Birth Rates
First Step Taken with Potato Rice Bread Cooking Experience
Hamyang County in South Gyeongsang Province announced on June 25 that it will officially launch the "400 Dads Group" project, a pilot initiative by South Gyeongsang Province to address low birth rates.
This program is a key initiative aimed at solving the low birth rate issue. South Gyeongsang Province is collaborating with all cities and counties in the province to expand fathers' participation in childrearing and to promote a balanced approach to caregiving within families.
The "400 Dads Group" is designed to strengthen family bonds, distribute the burden of childrearing, and enhance fathers' parenting skills through hands-on activities involving fathers and their children. In Hamyang County, 19 families have completed their applications to participate.
On June 21, the first program was held under the theme "Creating Memories Together with Dad and Child" at the Homirang experience space in Gaepyeong Hanok Village, Jigok-myeon, featuring a cooking experience activity.
Fathers and children made potato rice bread together, giving participants a rare opportunity for communication and collaboration that is difficult to experience in daily life. From kneading the dough to baking in the oven, fathers and children worked hand in hand, creating memories filled with laughter and conversation.
During the reflection session after the activity, one participant shared, "Spending time alone with my child without their mother gave me a chance to observe my child's emotions and behavior more closely. My perspective on parenting has changed." The children also expressed, "I really enjoyed doing activities with my dad," and cherished the experience as a valuable memory.
The Hamyang County Family Center plans to continue offering a variety of hands-on events throughout the year, starting with this cooking experience. Upcoming programs include mentoring and coaching, local cultural experiences, safety training, play activities, and harvest experiences. All activities are designed to strengthen parenting skills and improve family relationships, providing fathers with ongoing opportunities to connect with their children in daily life.
An official from Hamyang County stated, "Fathers' participation in childrearing goes beyond simple experiences and will serve as an important turning point leading to positive changes in family culture. We plan to continue encouraging fathers' ongoing involvement through a variety of programs tailored to the needs of our community."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
