![\"father-with-kids\"](\"https:\/\/www.ftf-stg.magnetry.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/story-4.jpg\")
Duane works two jobs to provide for his family. But, he says his most important job is being a single father to Anaya, 4, and Myles, 6. And that includes learning everything he can about parenting.<\/p>\nDuane works two jobs to provide for his family. But, he says his most important job is being a single father to Anaya, 4, and Myles, 6. And that includes learning everything he can about parenting.<\/p>\n
A resident of Ganado, Duane was a participant in a home visitation program funded by the First Things First Navajo Nation Regional Council to help parents provide safe, nurturing home environments that support children\u2019s learning.<\/p>\n
Home visitor Sharrisa Ben raved about this active, involved fath\u200b\u200ber. \u201cHe has his priorities straight and does everything!\u201d she said. \u201cHe cooks, cleans, does the laundry, takes them to school and attends all of our family trainings.\u201d<\/p>\n
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Sharrisa helped Duane create a stable environment for Anaya and Myles, which is important when children have multiple caregivers. While Duane is working, the kids\u2019 paternal grandmother, Cecelia, cares for them. Both caregivers work as a team to constantly reinforce positive behavior, teach good manners and promote healthy eating.<\/p>\n
Most importantly, they\u2019ve created consistent routines for the kids at home. Cecelia said this has done wonders for Anaya\u2019s social and emotional development. Before, Anaya was a little shy when it came to talking to people or performing new tasks. Now, her grandma said, \u201cShe wants to be involved in everything and she\u2019s trusting of people.\u201d<\/p>\n
Duane added his piece of advice for all fathers: \u201cDon\u2019t be afraid to ask for help.\u201d He says there\u2019s a misconception that fathers don\u2019t need help, but he wouldn\u2019t have been able to do everything without the support of his family and the home visitation program.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"