Parenting Thought:
Work with your child to think of three things that Dad says or does that are really good for your child. They can be things that help your child grow up well (for example, when he reminds him of his chores without getting mad) and also some things that are just a lot of fun for your child (for example, when he runs races around the house with her).
Share with Dad what you come up with. (Making a drawing of the things is a fun way to share.)
If your child’s Dad isn’t in his life right now, celebrate a male friend, relative, or neighbor who acts like a dad with your child.
Summer’s Picture Books
We have been amazed at how much good parenting information is in children’s picture books – books that we hope you are reading everyday to the children in your lives – your own, your class, those you take care of. For each book, we are noting there is something in it to remind you of how to be the parent you want to be.
What’s in it for you, the reader?
A reminder that preschool-aged children test out what it means to be mean, but you can help them learn that there are good reasons to give up being mean to be nice.
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OLIVER AND HIS ALLIGATOR by Paul Schmid
What’s in it for you, the reader?
A reminder that the first days of school can be scary for your children at any age and that you can help them get over those fears.
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KATIE AND THE PUPPY NEXT DOOR by John Himmelman
What’s in it for you, the reader?
A reminder that all children have trouble sharing, but you can help them learn that it also can be fun to share.
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I WILL LOVE YOU NO MATTER WHAT by Jay Rutland
What’s in it for you, the reader?
A reminder that your children need to know you love them no matter what – “On fun days and sad days and happy days and mad days….”
Read All About It:
SELF-ESTEEM A FAMILY AFFAIR, Jean Illsley Clarke
GROWING UP AGAIN: PARENTING OURSELVES, PARENTING OUR CHILDREN, Jean Illsley Clarke and Connie Dawson
Surf the Internet:
dads
fatherhood
Picture Book Parenting 