Love on the Brain
February 14, 2025Showing Up Shapes Futures
June is full of celebrations that speak to Power of Two’s mission–supporting caregivers and uplifting communities. This month invites us to reflect on love, legacy, and liberation–from fatherhood to Pride, Black Child Development Week to Juneteenth, we are highlighting the power of care and the many forms it can take in our communities.
Celebrating Fatherhood: The Power of “Dad Brain”
This Father’s Day, we’re highlighting that fatherhood doesn’t just change lives, it changes brains.
In a 2024 New York Times article, Abigail Tucker explores research showing that men experience neurological shifts when they become fathers. Studies suggest that while testosterone levels may decrease, activity in parts of the brain related to empathy, planning, and threat detection increases, especially in dads who are actively involved in caregiving. Research found that dads develop new brain patterns that help them tune into their children’s needs, comfort them, and keep them safe.
As the article emphasizes, biology is only part of the story. It’s not just becoming a father that reshapes the brain—it’s being one, showing up, and supporting consistently.
This Father’s Day, we honor every dad and father figure walking the path of caregiving. Your support matters. Your presence shapes your children's futures. Happy Father’s Day!
What Else We’re Celebrating This June
In addition to celebrating Father’s Day, June is a month of reflection and celebration. Here’s what we’re recognizing!
We celebrate Pride Month, honoring LGBTQIA+ families, caregivers, and children who embody love, resilience, and authenticity. This month is a time to uplift the joy and contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community.
We uplift Black Child Development Week (June 9-13), celebrating the brilliance, potential, and futures of Black children. We hope everyone joins us in increasing the visibility of issues and opportunities related to the healthy, safe, and joyful development of Black children.
We honor Juneteenth, commemorating Black liberation and the ongoing fight for equity. Observed on June 19, Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when enslaved Black Americans in Texas were finally informed of their freedom. It stands as a powerful reminder of Black liberation.
At Power of Two we honor the caregivers and children of all of these communities.
What We’re Reading: Mothers Report Worse Mental Health In New Report
As we celebrate our communities this June, we remain committed to uplifting the challenges parents continue to face. A recent Washington Post article highlights a rising trend: mothers in the U.S. are reporting a steady decline in their mental health. Drawing from a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, the article notes that between 2016 and 2023, the number of mothers rating their mental health as “excellent” dropped significantly—from 38% to 26%.
The findings cut across all racial, educational, and economic backgrounds, but the decline was especially steep among single mothers, those with less education, and those whose children rely on public or no health insurance.
Researchers stress that declines in maternal mental health don’t just affect mothers—they can have intergenerational consequences. When mothers struggle, children are at greater risk for developmental delays, emotional challenges, and long-term health impacts. Supporting maternal well-being is essential to building healthier families and stronger futures.
Read more here: The Washington Post