Issue #2: Becoming An Eclectic Grandpa

Welcome back!

The First Rule of H.M.C - Don’t Talk About the H.M.C

What’s on Today’s Agenda:

✏️ Helping Dads Support Kids

👕 Eclectic Grandpa

🎙️ Tony Hale Doesn’t Want to Pass His Childhood Anxiety to His Daughter

🎧 Folsom Prison

📅 Batting Cages, Football, and Drinks TONIGHT!!!!!

🤣  Dad Joke

Helping Dads Support Kids' Emotions as They Head Back to School

As the back-to-school season approaches, many children feel excitement, nervousness, and fear. This time of change can stir up many emotions, and dads play a crucial role in helping their kids navigate these feelings. As fathers, it’s essential to be there emotionally, offering support and guidance as children adjust to the new school year.

Understand the Range of Emotions Your child might be thrilled about seeing friends again but also anxious about new teachers or more challenging coursework. Be mindful of these varied emotions and listen closely to what your child tells you— verbally and through their behavior. Acknowledging their feelings, whether good or bad, can help them feel validated and understood.

Be an Emotional Role Model Kids learn emotional responses by watching their parents. Remaining calm and composed when things get hectic—like during rushed mornings—sends a powerful message. Name your own emotions and help your child recognize theirs. Saying something like, "It sounds like you’re feeling a little worried about your first day," can help them start to process their emotions.

Create a Safe Space for Sharing Make it a point to create moments where your child can express their feelings. Whether on the car ride to school or during bedtime, giving them regular opportunities to talk about their concerns makes a big difference. If they feel scared or overwhelmed, validate those feelings instead of rushing to solve the problem. Sometimes, all they need is a listening ear.

Manage Transitions with Routine and Reassurance Routines are a great way to help kids feel secure, especially during transitions. Establish a consistent morning and bedtime routine with little time to discuss the school day. Offer reassurance and remind them that it’s perfectly normal to feel a range of emotions when school starts again.

Teach Coping Skills Help your child manage their stress by teaching them simple coping strategies. Deep breathing exercises, positive self-talk, and calming activities like listening to music can make a big difference. Please encourage them to focus on one positive thing about the day to shift their mindset.

Stay Engaged and Be Present Make sure to stay involved in your child’s school experience. Ask about their day, help with homework, or attend school events. Being engaged shows them they aren’t facing this transition alone, strengthening their emotional connection.

Offer Extra Support for Big Changes If your child faces a more significant challenge, like entering a new school or making new friends, offer extra support. These transitions can be tricky, so ensure they know you’re there to help them through it. Books about emotional resilience or talking to a school counselor can also be helpful.

The most important thing is for your child to feel loved, supported, and understood as they navigate the emotions of the back-to-school season. By being a calm, present father, you’re giving them the tools they need to manage their feelings healthily all year.

Your Wardrobe: Eclectic Grandpa Style

The "Eclectic Grandpa" style made a splash earlier this year, and as we transition into the cooler months, it’s not going anywhere. The layering potential and cozy knits are perfect for fall and winter.

This trend takes classic pieces you’d associate with an older gentleman—think cardigans, sweaters, penny loafers, tweed, corduroy, classic hats, button-downs, boxy sport coats, and gold wire-frame glasses—and gives them a fresh twist. Imagine these staples in bold colors like neons or pastels or paired with more modern items. For example, you might swap in a henley or a crewneck tee instead of the traditional button-down under a Fair Isle vest.

They are modernizing these timeless "grandpa" pieces while maintaining their authentic, vintage charm.

It’s also a great chance to invest in some high-quality vintage clothing. Back before fast fashion took over, clothes were built to last. Or, if you’re lucky, you might be able to raid your grandparents’ closet for gems.

Even if the trend fades, those tweed trousers, long peacoats, or chunky fisherman sweaters will likely find their way back into your wardrobe eventually—whether it’s next season or years later.

From The Desk: Tony Hale Doesn’t Want to Pass His Childhood Anxiety to His Daughter

The article on Fatherly.com features an interview with actor Tony Hale, known for his roles in Arrested Development and Veep, where he opens up about his struggles with anxiety and how it influences his approach to parenting, particularly with his daughter. Hale discusses the pressure of perfectionism and how it impacts his mental health, as well as the importance of letting children see their parents as being vulnerable and dealing with emotions.

He also reflects on his experience narrating Finding Raffi, a podcast series that explores the legacy of the iconic children's musician Raffi. Hale highlights how Raffi’s message of kindness, empathy, and child-centered values still resonates today, especially in a world that often feels overwhelming for children and adults. The actor’s connection to Raffi’s calming music and positive influence shapes his reflections on parenting, mindfulness, and mental health.

Listen To This Album 💿

TONIGHT’S EVENT 📅

Dads' Night Out: Batting Cages and Drinks

Join us for a fun-filled evening of batting practice, good drinks, and even better company!

Date: September 5th, 2024
Time: Batting Cages / 8 PM - 9 PM
Location: Sport-n-Fun 30749 Grand River Ave, Farmington, MI 48336, United States

After the batting cages, we will head to Sidecar for post-drinks, boast about how hard we hit balls, and watch the first game of the NFL season.

Whether you're a pro at the plate or just looking for a fun night out, swing some bats, unwind with a few drinks, and enjoy some laughs with fellow dads.

Don't miss this chance to hit home runs and make new connections!

(Make sure to invite a neighborhood Dad)

Try Out This Dad Joke At Work

I'm Buzz Aldrin, second man to step on the moon. Neil before me.

Feed The Family 🍗

@thejoshelkin

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