School for Fathers

In an unheated clinic hall in Washington's Court House Square, 24 nervous men, almost all Government employes or servicemen, gathered somewhat sheepishly one evening last week. They were expectant fathers, met to hear a lecture on "Anatomy and Physiology Relating to Pregnancy."*

The two-hour meeting was the first of a series of five; the class was the first in the District of Columbia Health Department's new School for Expectant Fathers. The weekly sessions will include discussions (and practice on a 7 1/2-lb. doll) of 1) preparation for delivery, 2) aftercare of mother and baby, 3) how to bathe, dress, feed and belch the baby.

Washington's school is modeled on a course originated in 1937 by Manhattan's Maternity Center Association* and since adopted by several other cities. The schools, generally deploring news pictures of grinning males fumbling with diapers, insist that their purpose is to turn out better fathers, not mediocre substitute mothers. Washington graduates will receive diplomas bestowing the title of Prepared Parent.

* Parents' Magazine, also concerned about fatherhood in the armed forces, last month put out a special overseas "pony supplement." Sample topic: "Make the Most of Your Furlough."

* Which last week was thinking of postwar reunions of alumni and children for a followup in family relations.

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