The school year is beginning to wind down but not our busy schedules. Do not forget to use these calendars to connect with your kids during all of the fun and busy times of Spring.
NEXT MONTH we will have the 100 Things to Do with Your Child This Summer. Please share these with friends, families, and your programs or schools.
In the Spring our school events begin to wind down just like school does. However, about the time we are finishing up our school programs we have to begin for conference season. I love to speak at conferences for several reasons. First, if you know me you know I just love to talk in front of people, especially about dads and kids. Secondly, I love meeting other professionals who are trying to meet the same goals of improving child outcomes. As well, working at these conferences is not only how we get the next year of business but it is also how we spread the word about the importance of working with dads. It is our chance to make a difference in communities, schools, and homes where we may never work or visit.
I look at every evaluation from every program we do from schools to national conferences. I am very proud of the work we do but we are blessed to be working in a field that makes it easy for us to be good at it. We also have put in the miles to prove we know how to do the work and make a difference. We have worked face to face with over 100,000 fathers who impact over 300,000 kids. We don’t just talk about it, we are doing it every day. If you talk to anyone else in the fatherhood field ask them how many fathers they work with each week. Many of these experts have not worked with fathers for any length of time and may not have run the programs they promote. Our model works for you because it has worked for us because we are always working it. See how that works?
Here is what people have said about our programs……
Shopping for a dad on his birthday may be particularly difficult, especially if he is a man that seems to have everything. However, there are many things that dads like to receive on their special day. By keeping these tips in mind and setting a budget prior to shopping, it can be easy to find the perfect gifts for dad each and every year.
Many men like receiving electronics as gifts. Whether it is a new tablet computer or the latest smartphone, technology gifts are extremely popular. For those on a budget, buying a nice phone case or their dad’s favorite DVD, Blu-ray movie or TV series will ensure that their dad gets a gift that he truly enjoys.
For the fashion conscious dad, nice clothing is always a great option. A nice polo shirt or jacket is appreciated by men who like to look their best. Although it may seem cliche, those who work in the professional world may also like to receive a nice tie that they can wear with their business attire. A high quality watch may also make the perfect gift for a fashionable dad that likes to be on time.
Some dads like to work around the house. For these dads, new tools to help them fix everything are a great birthday gift. Tools come in a wide variety of price ranges, so they are perfect for any budget. Power tools are also popular gifts for many men, so buying dad a tool that he does not have already have will give him something that he will use.
Those who are still stuck on gift ideas can always purchase a gift card or gift certificate. These can be purchased for almost anything. Gift certificates to a restaurant or for a round of golf will make any dad smile on his birthday. Gift cards for specific retailers can also be purchased so that he can buy whatever it is that he wants. The tech-savvy dad would appreciate a gift card to an electronics store, while some dads may like gift cards that can be used like a credit card at almost any retailer.
Although it may be difficult to find a gift for dad’s birthday, it can be made easier by keeping in mind what he likes and what he’s like. By doing so, anyone can be sure that they purchase a gift every year that their dad absolutely loves.
Spring has sprung and so have the busy schedules. Do not forget to use these calendars to connect with your kids during all of the fun and busy times of Spring. Please share these with friends, families, and your programs or schools.
Here are the calendars for both schools and early childhood environments. Hope YOUR calendar involves a Spring Break for you and your kids. (Or away from your kids if you are an educator!)
Dads plus Kids…and throw in a few Moms–it’s a formula for for a super night of science and fun! Christie Elementary in Plano was the place to be! The cafeteria was full and the rockets were flying…and a couple of them are still stuck up on the light fixtures. A special thanks to Ms. Crouch and Ms. Rodriguez for hosting a great group of Dads, Moms, and Students. Way to go Christie Elementary!
Authors’ Note: I had the blessing to work with the Head Start professionals in Circleville, OH this past Fall. Nick was one of the employees in the full day training on father engagement. I spoke to this big room full of great folks but was right in front of Nick. Needless to say when you are trying to teach Santa about family, it can be a bit daunting. i got the opportunity to talk to Nick and LOVED his story. He has kind of been busy lately so we finally got a chance to interview him. There are great dads out there, there are great family service professionals out there as well. I love it when they are the same guy!