Father Matters

09/01/2026

Children do not need every morning to go perfectly. A simple routine can still help the day feel more predictable and give everyone fewer decisions to make under pressure.

Try choosing three steps your family can repeat: pack bags the night before, place important items by the door, and take one minute to review the next day together. Keep the plan visible and simple enough for children to participate. When something changes, reset without turning one difficult morning into a judgment about the whole week.

What is one small routine that would make your family’s mornings easier?

08/30/2026

Fatherhood can bring questions that do not have easy answers. Asking for guidance does not make a father weak. It shows that he cares enough to keep learning.

Support can come from another father, a trusted mentor, a parenting workshop, or a community that understands the responsibility you carry. Honest conversations can help fathers consider new options and take the next step with greater clarity. You do not have to know everything to be a committed father. You only have to remain willing to grow.

Father Matters is offering free parenting classes for fathers and caregivers on September 12. Learn more and register here:

https://fathermatters.org/calendar/free-parenting-classes-for-fathers-sep-12-2026/

08/29/2026

The conversation starts tonight.

Join Vance Simms for The Father Matters Show and hear honest, practical conversations about fatherhood, family, responsibility, and community. Whether you are a father, mother, caregiver, mentor, or community partner, there is a place for you in the conversation.

Listen tonight at 9 PM on FaithTalk 1360 AM KPXQ. Set a reminder and invite someone to listen with you.

https://fathermatters.org/the-father-matters-show-with-vance-simms/

08/28/2026

The final Outdoor Market weekend of August is almost here.

Come out this weekend, Saturday, August 29, and Sunday, August 30, from 5:30 AM to 12 PM. Shop local vendors, discover handcrafted goods, enjoy food and fresh items, and connect with neighbors and community resources.

Entry is free at The Gathering Place, 4624 S. 24th St., Phoenix, AZ 85040, at the southwest corner of 24th Street and Broadway.

See the market details here:
https://fathermatters.org/the-gathering-place-market/

08/27/2026

Support for an older loved one often begins before there is a crisis. A regular phone call, visit, or shared meal creates space to notice changes and hear what they need.

Checking in does not have to feel formal. Ask how the week has been and make time for a real answer. Offer help without taking away their choices or independence. Consistent connection reminds older family members and neighbors that they remain valued, respected, and part of the community.

Who could use a thoughtful check-in from you this week? Learn about Caring Together, Father Matters’ free senior and caregiver conference on October 7:

https://fathermatters.org/calendar/caring-together-a-senior-caregiver-conference-october-7-2026/

Father Matters supports, encourages, and equips fathers and families through programs, workshops, community resources, food pantry support, workforce assistance, and family education.

08/26/2026

Make The Father Matters Show part of your Saturday evening.

Join host Vance Simms for honest, practical conversations about fatherhood, family, responsibility, and the issues affecting our communities. Each program features perspectives designed to inform, encourage, and keep important family conversations moving forward.

Listen every Saturday at 9 PM on FaithTalk 1360 AM KPXQ.

Know a father, mother, caregiver, or community partner who would benefit from the conversation? Share this post and invite them to listen with you.

https://fathermatters.org/the-father-matters-show-with-vance-simms/

08/25/2026

When your child opens up, it can be tempting to jump straight into advice or correction. Listening first gives you a chance to understand what is really happening.

Let them finish. Ask a calm question. Repeat back what you heard before deciding what comes next. You do not have to agree with everything to show that their thoughts matter. Connection does not remove boundaries. It helps your guidance reach a child who knows you are listening.

Can you make room for one uninterrupted conversation this week? Explore Father Matters family education and support resources here:

https://fathermatters.org/programs/family-education-support/

08/22/2026

Children pay attention to how adults speak when plans change or frustration rises. They notice the tone, the listening, and whether respect stays in the room during a hard conversation.

Fathers have an opportunity to model what healthy communication looks like with a spouse, co-parent, or caregiver. That does not mean agreeing about everything. It means staying clear, calm, and focused on what helps the child feel supported.

The example children see today can shape what they expect from relationships tomorrow.

What respectful behavior do you want your child to learn from you?

https://fathermatters.org/

08/21/2026

Make plans to spend part of this weekend with your South Phoenix neighbors.

The Gathering Place Outdoor Market is open Saturday, August 22, and Sunday, August 23, from 5:30 AM to 12 PM. Browse local vendors, handcrafted goods, fresh items, wellness products, community resources, food, and more.

Entry is free. Join us at 4624 S. 24th St., Phoenix, AZ 85040, at the southwest corner of 24th Street and Broadway.

See the market details here:
https://fathermatters.org/the-gathering-place-market/