A profound study led by Dr. Helen Norman at the University of Leeds (UK), analyzing data from nearly 5,000 families, has revealed a key finding about effective parenting.

The research showed that when fathers regularly engaged in interactive activities (such as reading, storytelling, and playing) with their 3-year-olds, those children displayed significantly better academic performance by the time they reached ages 5 and 7.

The Father’s Influence is Distinct

Crucially, this positive effect was identified as unique and specific to the father. The study successfully separated this influence from the mother’s role (who often shows a stronger impact on emotional growth), suggesting that the father provides a distinct cognitive boost.

Significantly, this effect held true across all backgrounds—regardless of ethnicity, income, or the child’s gender. This underscores the father’s role as a universal and powerful resource for cognitive development.

The researchers stressed that even 10 minutes of quality, daily interaction could make a meaningful, lasting difference in a child’s educational trajectory.

Practical Implications for Families

The University of Leeds study serves as a strong reminder that a father’s active presence and interactive engagement is not just beneficial, but a critical factor in a child’s early academic success. It encourages fathers to turn small, daily moments into valuable intellectual growth opportunities for their children.