I'm a WatchDOG Dad

Mission accomplished! 

Today, I served as a WatchDOG dad at Isabelle’s elementary school. My day was hectic, a bit stressful but so much fun and very satisfying (I took a shot of 5-Hour Energy to help me go through the day). The best part of being a WatchDOG was seeing my daughter proud of seeing dad around school and being a WatchDOG kid or as she refers as a “WatchPUPPY.” Sitting down and socializing with my daughter’s friends during lunch period was also very valuable. 

I am very impressed on how kids react to my presence. Some will call me by name, “Mr. Bruce” or “WatchDOG” when they see me in the hallway and greets me with a big high-five. There were kids who were eager to get close to me and some who wants to be "clingy" - which doesn't bother me at all. The presence of a male-figure WatchDOG in school provide an extra sense of security and comfort children need every day. I am glad to be able to provide that even for a short time. That alone is reason for me to volunteer again someday.

WatchDOG is the father involvement initiative of the National Center for Fathering. It organizes fathers and father figures to provide positive male role models for students by serving at least one day a year in a variety of school activities assigned by the school principal or administrator. Click here for more information.

The WatchDOGS. Mission Accomplished!

Dads, your drinking has an impact on your children

This powerful video ad from Finland is probably close to explain why my young daughter was in tears after we came from a friends barbecue party a couple of months ago. She said she got scare because she saw me drinking "alcohol" (beer). Since then, I’ve been careful and more discreet in my social drinking. Other dads should too because young eyes could be watching.

  

Explain to Children Why Voting this November is Important

The US presidential election is near and if you're like me who desires to explain to my kids why it is important for mom and dad to be involved in the political process such as voting, this video from the Colson Center should be a good resource. As explained in the video, voting is a Christian duty and it's our way of following Christ's command to love our neighbors. This shouldn't be too hard to explain using child appropriate language.  Do you agree?

If you have other resources that can help me explain politics and government to my young children, please send it to me. I would like to see what other dads or parents are using.

 

Two Things to Teach Your Kids About the 9/11 Attacks

Bad crap happens but God is in Control: We need to take the time to teach our kids that bad crap in life just happens.  People murder.  Parents get divorced.  Bullies bully.  Although bad crap happens, we still have a God that loves and cares for us.  Romans 8:28 says “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”  We should teach our kids to STAND on this promise.  I don’t understand why God allows this stuff to happen?  I don’t understand why God didn’t call out the Avengers to open up a can…so when I don’t understand I must STAND and trust the promises of God.

Be a hero and step into the fear:  Take the time to teach your kiddos about the heroes of 9/11.  The NYPD & NYFD could have ran, backed down and cowered in fear but instead they chose to step into the fear, enter the chaos and save lives.  The passengers on the jet headed for the White House could have fearfully waited for their death but instead they chose to step into the fear, fight, kick and go full on Rambo on the terrorist and bring the plane down.  Teach your kids to to be a hero and step into the pain.

(Source: Chris Sprad, EpicParent.TV)