Fathers Reading Every Day: FRED programme supports Dads to build bonds through books
As Father’s Day approaches, the Vale of Glamorgan Council is highlighting the Fathers Reading Every Day (FRED) programme – an initiative designed to support dads and male carers in building strong, lasting relationships with their children through daily reading.
Developed by the Fatherhood Institute, the FRED programme encourages fathers, grandfathers, uncles and other male role models to spend a few minutes each day reading with their child over a four-week period.
This simple but powerful routine helps children develop communication skills, supports wellbeing, and gives them a better start in school and life.
Reading together fosters more than literacy - it strengthens emotional bonds and creates space for shared moments of joy, curiosity and imagination.
The FRED programme, delivered by Flying Start, supports families throughout the Vale.
Anne Brock is a Flying Start Learning Coach and has spoken about how much she enjoys delivering the programme: "It has been really lovely meeting the dads and their children who have been involved with the FRED programme so far. Everyone seems to have enjoyed their reading journey, and I look forward to encouraging more dads and children to take part in the programme in the future."
Here’s some feedback from the families who took part in the scheme:
"It was a good experience and has boosted my confidence. We loved sitting together doing the FRED programme and we still do."
"My daughter loves reading with me and brings me books when I come home from work."
"We are enjoying the time looking at books together."
Cllr Eddie Williams, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Health, said: "FRED is about more than books – it’s about connection and routine. This scheme shows just how this small daily habit can help build strong, positive relationships with dads and male carers, and gives children a real boost in terms of confidence, language skills and school readiness."