Dads join their kids in school in Warren - 21 News Now, More Local News for Youngstown, Ohio -

WARREN, Ohio - A salute to fathers and their impact on the lives of their children took center stage on Tuesday in Warren City Schools.

Dads were saved a seat and joined the cafeteria crowd for breakfast as they were given helpful hints about improving their homework.

"Dads, let me tell ya, you know it ain't easy and you know the older these little guys get the more of a challenge they get to be," said Robert Dean, Warren City Council President.

The district partnered with the Trumbull County Fatherhood Initiative to host its first Fathers Take Your Child to School Day. It's a program that originated in Chicago.

Guest speakers emphasized to fathers, and father figures, why their presence plays a big role in their child's life. "When children know their fathers have their support, their mothers have their support, then they can do well academically. Specifically fathers, because they are important in the family structure," said Andre Smith, Jefferson Elementary Principal.

While parenting can be a challenge, the advice provided to a packed room at Jefferson Elementary was simple; talk with children about what they're learning in the classroom and incorporate conversations at home.