It is been found that fathers who actively engage in play with their babies have a positive impact on their later cognitive development.

The study looked at how fathers interacted with their babies at three months of age and measured their development more than a year later. 

The children cognition was measured using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler development which included recognition of colours and shapes.

Following the data from 128 fathers, and accounting for factors such as income and age. 

The findings also showed that children interacting with sensitive, calm and less anxious fathers during a book reading session at the age of two, had better cognitive development – including attention, problem-solving, language, and social skills.