ILDEPHONSE Bakundukize is a busy working father and a part-time student, which makes finding time to spend with his children very difficult.

In between studying electrical engineering, Ildephonse works as a taxi driver to support his full-time student wife Neema and his three children.

He admitted: "Many Dads, like me, don't have time to get involved with their children because of busy schedules."

One Greenwich nursery, however, has found the absence of paternal interaction in a child's life could restrict their development and has introduced a solution to the problem.

Park Pound Nursery's Dads' Group has proved extremely popular, already encouraging 30 dads and children to spend some quality time together.

The group was established as a way for fathers in the area to come together and have fun with their children.

The sessions incorporate a range of activities, from curriculum-based learning in subjects such as science and visits to a forest school to learn about nature, to messy play which encourages Dads and kids to have fun together.

Sheena Gilby, head teacher at Pound Park, a Sure Start Children's Centre, said: "We realise the importance of paternal influence on the growth and development of young children.

"Due to today's busy lifestyles, many children don't get that special time with Dad. Because of this, we make our facilities and staff available so that children and their dads get that special time they need."

The group is not just open to dads either, as many uncles and grandpas go along to the sessions too.

Ildephonse added: "The Dads' Group gives me the time I want and need with my children.

"I set that time aside for them and studying and work don't get in the way."