ABSTRACT

Drawing from ecological system theory, the focus of this study was on the perceptions of parents and teachers regarding policies related to fathers’ engagement in children’s early education. A descriptive survey research was used to obtain primary data for the study using a sample of 309 participants comprising 94 teachers, and 215 parents of children in the selected schools. A structured questionnaire instrument was used for data collection for the study. Data were analyzed using mean, multiple regression and t-test statistic. The study found that both parents and teachers had positive perceptions regarding policies related to fathers’ engagement in children’s early education. Additionally, it was found in the study that demographic characteristics had no significant influences on the mean perception ratings of parents and teachers on policies related to fathers’ engagement in children’s early education. The researchers recommended that the South African government should ensure full implementation of ECCE policies that lay out concrete commitment and guidelines for fathers’ engagement in their children’s education.

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