DAD'S don't always get the credit they deserve, especially after a divorce or separation, but from the looks of things, times are a'changin'.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, fathers play a much larger role in their children's lives than society would let on to believe. Some of the more interesting facts are:

* There are over 105,000 married stay-at-home dads. Clearly men are becoming more flexible to ensure their children are being cared for.

* There are over 2 million single fathers, compared to less than 400,000 in 1970. As a single father, I'm proud of these dads being so proactive in their children's lives.

* 10% of single fathers are raising three or more children. Way to go dads!

* 10% of single fathers are raising infants under 1. Who said dads don't like dirty diapers?

I'm proud of the growing movement of fathers playing larger roles in their children's lives, especially those of us who are doing it on our own. In time, the stigma of the "Disneyland Dad" will be behind us and fathers will get their due rights in court.

If we each play our part, together we will change our society for the better and show the world how important dads really are.

Discussion Points:

* Do you think fathers can someday be seen as important to children as mothers?
* Are you a single or stay-at-home dad? How do people treat you when they find this out?
* Do you feel fathers will eventually get all the same rights as mothers?