In the spirit of Father’s Day this weekend, here’s a look at some books that deal with the many facets of fatherhood. We recommend these not only as gifts any dad would enjoy for Father’s Day, but also just as good reads for dads anytime!
“Good Talk, Dad: The Birds and the Bees… And Other Conversations We Forgot to Have”
This book, by CBS Sunday Morning correspondent Bill Geist and his son, Today Show host Willie Geist, tackles father-son conversations in a unique way. Told in a conversational, back-and-forth style between the father/son duo, the book showcases the pair riffing on fatherhood, religion, music, sports, summer camp disasters, driving lessons gone horribly wrong, being on TV, and their wonderfully odd family life. Good Talk, Dad: The Birds and the Bees… And Other Conversations We Forgot to Have is an excellent look at the relationship between fathers and sons, and perfect for Father’s Day.
The Parents’ Phrase Book: Hundreds of Easy, Useful Phrases, Scripts, and Techniques for Every Situation
Have you ever needed just the right answer when your child asks you something, but you just can’t quite put the answer into the right words? With The Parents’ Phrase Book, you no longer have to worry about coming up with the right response on the spot. The Parents’ Phrase Book gives you an inside track to all the things you’ll need to know so your kids never catch you off guard with a question or concern ever again. Author and parenting expert Whit Honea offers perfect examples in this handy guide that will prove invaluable for any dad.
From Dude to Dad: The Diaper Dude Guide to Pregnancy
Written by Diaper Dude creator Chris Pegula, From Dude to Dadis a fantastic guide to new fatherhood. It gives you the need-to-know essentials on pregnancy, birthing, and parenthood, and how it’s okay to be scared out of your mind. You’ll learn what the expecting mom is going through during each trimester, how you can be the best partner and dad-to-be, and how to immediately start bonding with baby. This one’s perfect for all the new dads out there!
Dad’s Book of Awesome Projects: From Stilts and Superhero Capes to Tinker Boxes and Seesaws, 25+ Do-It Yourself Projects for Families
Dads are certainly a crafty bunch, in the best of ways– and Dad’s Book of Awesome Projects helps you indulge that tinkering side by teaching you how to build all kinds of things with your kids! From wooden “swords” to slay the most vicious of dragons to circus stilts that will send you soaring to new heights, these projects are sure to spark everyone’s creative spirit. And the fun doesn’t stop there! This book shows you and your kids how to build:
Comic book shoes
Rope swings
Homemade goo slime
Eggshell cupcakes
Ol’-fashioned fruit crate scooter
Perfect for inspiring endless hours of summertime (and anytime!) fun, giving a dad this book also offers tons of valuable family time together with his children.
The Guide to Baby Sleep Positions: Survival Tips for Co-Sleeping Parents
Written by Andy Herald and Charlie Capen of HowToBeADad.com, The Guide to Baby Sleep Positions offers hilarious infographics, descriptions, and more about the trials and tribulations of sleeping with a baby in the bed. The Guide to Baby Sleep Positions features some of the most popular posts from their site (we can’t leave out “H is for Hell” or “Jazz Hands”), but two-thirds of the content will be unique to the book, and ALL of the positions will be accompanied by new text. These two Dads NAIL IT! If you’ve ever had a need to co-sleep with your baby/toddler/child, you know that this stuff happens, but whether you’ve experienced these bedtime contortions or not yet, you’ll find some humor and fun in this book!
DadLabs (TM) Guide to Fatherhood
Stuck in a rough situation parenting-wise and not sure who to ask? We’ve got the perfect book for you. Full of hilarious and practical information inspired by their award-winning Web site, DadLabs Guide to Fatherhood will teach you:
• Why sex is overrated (and other lies new fathers tell themselves)
• The incredibly disgusting varieties of baby poop
• Why washing bottles will not make your balls fall off
• Essential OB/GYN office survival tips
• Things you should never ever say during labor
• Why other parents’ children are inferior to yours
• And much, much more!
Bobblehead Dad: 25 Life Lessons I Forgot I Knew
Bobblehead Dad tells the story of how author Jim Higley went from being a bobblehead who just put on a smiling face and bobbled through his hectic, overflowing days to reanalyzing and living his life in the wake of a cancer diagnosis. Written in an informal but eloquent style, Bobblehead Dad keeps you laughing, crying and–most importantly–thinking. Higley’s distinctive storytelling rhythm, combined with a knack for handling heavy topics with an embraceable voice, quickly draws you into his experiences–while launching you on your own journey of self-discovery and reflection. It’s a great read that reaffirms the importance of fatherhood and dads taking care of their families even in today’s crazy world.
Still on the lookout for Father’s Day gifts? We’ve got some great suggestions for you and the fathers and grandfathers in your life!
TRAVELZOO FATHER’S DAY GIFT GUIDE
Pick out a gift for Dad that he’ll remember forever from Travelzoo which is chock full of adrenaline-fueled adventures, steak house dinners, golf at top rated courses, tickets to the big game and much more. Pick out your favorite experience and have it delivered via email or a printed certificate printed on premium color stock which describes the experience and how to use it. It is packaged with your personal message and mailed directly. Or, have the certificate emailed. To see Travelzoo’s Father’s Day Gift Guide visit: www.travelzoo.com/local-deals/gifts
WHITE CHOCOLATE AND COCONUT GOLF BALLS – NORMAN LOVE CONFECTIONS $18.00
Suiting golfers to a tee, this box from features six white chocolate golf balls filled with a delicious coconut cream ganache. Norman Love, an internationally recognized chocolatier whose artisanal chocolates bare his namesake, masterfully blends the purest ingredients to create edible works of art that are nothing less than perfect and leave a lasting impression on all. To purchase please visit: www.normanloveconfections.com.
UNISEX COURAGE BACKPACK- TWELVElittle – $210
TWELVElittle’s unisex Courage backpack is designed for men and women who are both fashionable and always on-the-go. With an exclusive hidden zipper pocket, parents can store dirty items like diapers and shoes, and an interior padded tech sleeve protects all handheld gadgets and even laptops up to 14 inches. Sold in a variety of other colors, this backpack can be purchased at www.twelvelittle.com
PRODUCT OF THE YEAR
Product of the Year is the largest consumer product award that rewards innovation and is voted on by real consumers. Product of the Year currently operates in 40 countries with the same purpose: Guide consumers to the best products in their market and reward manufacturers for quality and innovation. For more information please visit: www.productoftheyearusa.com.
2014 PRODUCT OF THE YEAR WINNERS INCLUDE:
XBOX ONE – $499.99
Xbox One is the all-in-one entertainment system that gives you instant access to TV, games, music, movies, sports and apps. It plugs into your set-top box and the improved Kinect lets you control all your connected entertainment devices with voice-no need for a remote or to change inputs. Xbox One also supports more immersive, enhanced titles like “Forza 5,” “Ryse: Son of Rome” and “Titanfall,” making it the best place to play games.
SODASTREAM SOURCE – $99.99
SodaStream partners with Yves Béhar, world-renowned designers and social entrepreneur- the result is the new Source, an elegantly-designed soda maker that combines beauty, functionality and efficiency. Powered by a CO2 canister, the refined mechanics of SodaStream make the entire top surface responsive to touch. A new Snap-Lock mechanism makes the process quick, easy and intuitive, while an LED display provides instant visual feedback on the level of carbonation.
If you’re like me, then you know all too well how everyday purchases can add up. Groceries, gas, MetroCards… seemingly small transactions come together over time, and before you know it, they’ve piled up into a pretty substantial bill. Parenting is not without its costs–a fact that’s especially on my mind with Harper having just turned one. It wasn’t too long ago that we had to baby-proof the apartment in anticipation of the arrival of our little girl and her first steps, and between outlet protectors, corner covers and the like, we ended up spending quite a bit more than expected fixing the place up.
Thankfully, American Express just launched the Amex EveryDay, a no-fee card that rewards you with points for everyday purchases like these. With double points on groceries, and extra rewards for using the card often, it’s perfect for getting something back from those simple buys that you don’t even think about. It’s a must-have for dads who like to save, and get rewarded not just for the big buys, but for the everyday moments as well. And who doesn’t love that? What #EveryDayMoments could you use an Amex EveryDay card for? Share them on Twitter with the hashtag #EveryDayMoments on Father’s Day Weekend (June 12-13) for a chance to win a $4,000 worth of Home Depot gift cards!
Disclaimer: I was compensated by Amex EveryDay, the new credit card from American Express that celebrates #EveryDayMoments and everyday purchases. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Father’s Day is this Sunday, so there’s only a few days left to grab up some gifts for your dad! If you’re looking for something to get for dads on the go, we’ve got the perfect pick! Check out TWELVElittle’s Companion backpack and Courage backpack (which is great for keeping all your gadgets organized!) Take a look below for more info on both bags:
Made with soft and lightweight water resistant nylon, the Companion Backpack is a must have for dads who seek fashion forward style and maximum comfort. The spacious main compartment allows room for all baby items, and with multiple exterior and interior pockets, organization is simply effortless. Snooki and Kelly Clarkson just snagged this one.
Durable, spacious and comfortable, the unisex backpack is designed for dads that are style conscious and frequently on-the-go. Our exclusive bottom hidden zipper pocket allows parents to quickly take care of dirty diapers and clothes. The interior padded tech sleeve provides protection for all handheld gadgets and up to 14″ laptop for the most techy dads.
Either of these bags would be a great choice for any dad this Father’s Day– and they’re available at Amazon, Giggle, and TWELVElittle’s online shop.
Ionix bricks are like no other. They can shapeshift from brick to hero in a matter of seconds. Unassuming walls become armies and dropships become interdimensional portals. The possibilities are limitless, so what are you waiting for? Shapeshift. Build. Unleash!
On Thursday June 12th join us for a twitter party that celebrates the transforming bricks. We have over $1000 in prizes with prizes to be won every 10 minutes!
Jump on twitter tomorrow at 1pm EST join the conversation around #IONIXDragons
We love seeing family both near and far… one thing that sometime has stopped us from traveling is the idea of do we have a crib there… is it a drop side crib of death (DO NOT USE Drop Side Cribs)… is it a pack and play from the 90’s did we loose the instructions to that pack and play will it take me longer to put it together then the visit itself… Thats been the thought process but then came along 4moms (I wish it was called 2dads or something more parent friendly) but no matter the name their products are AWESOME! I’ve been a big fan of the breeze since I first saw it at ABC baby and kids Expo years ago.
There is no silly locks and buttons and angles which you need to open it at… its just works. So Its made visiting Grandpa’s much easier this summer. After driving for hours to the end of long island you know you wont have a happy baby. Harper was actually pretty upset and cranky (can you blame her? I’d be pissed being in a car for 2 hours too). We dash into the house and within minutes we have the Breeze playard setup and ready to go… its perfect for naps and great for me to have a few moments to have piece of mind that she’s not going to walk into my legs, while I carry in the bags.
It takes me 3 minutes to make sure the breeze is all setup and it takes harper about 4 minutes to go to sleep once I got it setup. Now that is a Breeze #DadJoke.
We look forward to more roadtrip with the breeze and know that what harper is sleep is our own and its clean (so my wife doesnt have to worry).
Now no worries if you dont win my giveaway – if you check out 4mom’s facebook page you’ll see theyve got a bunch to giveaway there and we’re just 1/3 the way into the blog tour!
Want to see a great video review on the 4mom breeze – my friend Holly from BabyGizmo posted this one…
How to win it… Contest ends 11:59pm EST. June 17th, 2014.
Leave a comment why you want to win a brand new 4Moms Breeze! and please include some method for us to contact you in the comment (twitter or email).
You get 1 extra entry for tweeting about this contest (you can do this daily). Must contain the following information: @4moms @dadarocks –http://dad.am/1iiGGVG and you must also comment with the link to your tweet.
Example: I want to win a @4moms Breeze from @dadarocks –http://dad.am/1iiGGVG #giveaway
You get 1 extra entry for following @dadarocks on twitter – www.twitter.com/DaDaRocks You must comment that you’re a follower.
You get 1 extra entry for becoming our FAN on facebook – www.facebook.com/DaDaRocks You must comment that you’re a fan.
You get 1 extra entry for becoming their FAN on facebook – www.facebook.com/4moms Leave a note on their wall you’ve come from the DaDa Rocks giveaway! You must also comment here that you’re their fan.
You get 1 extra entry for liking this page on facebook (like button at the top of the post NOTE: you must be signed into facebook for it to work!)
You get 1 extra entry for G+ this page on plus.google.com (click on the little G+ icon below) You must comment that you have G+ it.
You will have 24 hours to reply before we pick another winner!
Disclaimer: 4moms supplied a sample breeze for me to demo and the prizes for this contest (no other compensation was provided) and this giveaway is limited to the USA and Canada only.
With Father’s Day just around the corner, mothers, fathers and kids alike are looking for creative ways to celebrate on the greatest accomplishment of any man …being a dad.
Fathers are traditionally defined as the strong, stable provider for their children, but the reality is father’s also play a key role in the development of their kids’ social and emotional resilience.
Here are some tips from Devereux (one of the largest not-for-profit behavioral healthcare organizations in the country) for the perfect Father’s Day celebration that combines fun, fanfare and family.
Below are 5 activities for this Father’s Day that Dad and the kids can do together to strengthen their bond and build their child’s social and emotional resilience.
That’s My Name (Infants) – Make some daddy-baby time to read some stories, or make up your own. Be sure to incorporate your baby’s name and of course the man of honor, daddy, into the story!
Still as Statues (Toddlers) – Top the day off with a dance party – we know you have it in you, Dad – put on some of Dad’s favorite songs and encourage your toddler to dance-it-out and freeze when the music stops!
Walking on my Knees for You– (Pre-School ) – Dad and child can spend some time getting on the same level…literally! Take some time to talk about your favorite childhood activities and then show them how it’s done!
Let’s Get Physical-(Pre-School) A catch with Dad is as iconic as ice cream and apple pie, bond with your child through traditional outdoor games and make some memories of your own!
All About My Feelings Book (school age 6-10) – What better gift than finding out all the amazing ways your child loves and cares for you as a Daddy?! Start with how time spent with dad makes them feel, and you’ll be amazed where it can go!
On the heels of the E3 gaming conference in California, Disney Interactive Studios and Harmonix have announced that the highly-anticipated game Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved will be released on October 21, 2014. in the above trailer, you can get a look at the new game, including a peek at a new area called “The Neighborhood.”
In “The Neighborhood,” players will work their way through a restrained 2D urban cityscape, using music and magic to unleash a vibrant and magical 3D environment by interacting with billboards, rooftops, trains and other surprises hidden within the city landscape. Through this mind-bending experience, players will watch and listen as their movements create bold colors and whimsical music that make “The Neighborhood” a fantastical adventure.
The latest announced tracks from a range of award-winning artists that will appear in-game include:
Depeche Mode – “Enjoy the Silence”
Drake – “Take Care” (ft. Rihanna)
Tchaikovsky – “The Nutcracker Medley”
Police – “Message in a Bottle”
MIA – “Galang”
The Who – “The Real Me”
These tracks are the latest additions to an already-impressive list of music that will be featured in the game, including the following:
AVICII – “Levels”
David Bowie – “Ziggy Stardust”
Antonin Dvorak – “Symphony No. 9 from the New World”
Fun. – “Some Nights”
Peter Gabriel – “In Your Eyes”
Gorillaz – “Feel Good Inc.”
Cee Lo Green – “Forget You”
Elton John – “Rocket Man”
Kimbra – “Settle Down”
Lorde – “Royals”
Bruno Mars – “Locked Out of Heaven”
Nicki Minaj – “Super Bass”
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart – “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik”
Modest Mussorgsky – “Night on Bald Mountain”
Queen – “Bohemian Rhapsody”
White Stripes – “Seven Nation Army”
Antonio Vivaldi – “The Four Seasons: Winter, 1st Movement”
Disney Fantasia: Music Evolved will be available this fall for Microsoft’s Xbox One and Xbox 360.
Be a reader yourself: Allow your child to see you reading for pleasure as well as for information. Put together a Summer Reading List for yourself as well as for your child. Then be sure to demonstrate how relaxing it can be to enjoy a good book by the pool or beach after swimming.
Get relevant books into your kids’ hands: If your family is going on vacation to a different region of the country, pick up a children’s book about that destination. It can be short or long, fiction or non-fiction. Ask your local children’s librarian for recommendations. For example, say you’re going to the Chesapeake Bay area for a few days. Pick up a copy of Misty of Chincoteague, a beautifully written novel that is based on the true story of the wild ponies from that region.
Read aloud: Don’t be afraid to try reading your favorite children’s chapter book to your younger child. While storybooks form the foundation of a young child’s library, longer books without pictures encourage children to use their imaginations to paint pictures in their minds. These types of books can also be a good way to pass the time on road trips without always having to resort to video games.
Download the Hooked On Phonics Learn to Read app (for iOS or Android or Kindle): When appropriate, let technology work for you. The Hooked On Phonics app is loaded with music, games, activities and open-ended play that keeps your child engaged, but it’s also correlated to National Common Core Standards. So you can rest easy knowing that your child is practicing critical reading skills that he or she will need to know to be a successful reader.
Join a book club: One convenient and inexpensive way to feed your child’s need for books is to join a book club (like one from Early Moments) that is geared to your child’s age and interest.
Visit the library: Not only is the library a perfect place to get suggestions and books for your Summer Reading List, but most public libraries have summer book club discussion groups for kids, book-based crafts, and meet the author events that are both fun and free.
Nationally, 37% of children arrive into kindergarten without the necessary skills to start the learning process of reading and writing. This is why Hooked On Phonics is the number one at-home educational tool for 3- to 6-year-olds. Now, with the mobile apps via iOS and Android, the company is hoping to triple the number of kids who have learned how to read with Hooked On Phonics.
Hooked On Phonics mobile app development team is always working on the latest technology to assist students, parents and teachers with reading, phonics and education. To learn more about the company and to see the latest products, please visit www.hookedonphonics.com .
After the ceremony, I was able to speak to Vince Camuto who expressed the heartwarming feeling that his children are not his only family, but that he sees his employees, most, at least a generation younger than him, as his family. All part of why he won the award and his company has been so successful.
I was able to speak to Curtis Martin at length and was impressed by his calm. He had answers ready for all questions asked. Because his father was an abuser his mother was his mentor. Asked how to guide children in the balance of winning and sportsmanship, Martin said, just try to be the best you can be. Winning at all costs is fine as long as you don’t break any rules. “But it is not competition with others that is important, it is the competition within oneself. Be better than yesterday,” he suggested, “and let the chips fall where they may.” This reporter responded with “And for you, the chips fell pretty well.” And Mr. Martin gave the broadest, warmest smile of ease and grace. It was easy to see how even though the father of rather young children he was honored on this day with father’s of twenty and more years, he is a role model for being the best while remaining cool. A full interview has been recorded.
“Good Talk, Dad: The Birds and the Bees… And Other Conversations We Forgot to Have”
The Parents’ Phrase Book: Hundreds of Easy, Useful Phrases, Scripts, and Techniques for Every Situation
From Dude to Dad: The Diaper Dude Guide to Pregnancy
The Guide to Baby Sleep Positions: Survival Tips for Co-Sleeping Parents
DadLabs (TM) Guide to Fatherhood
Bobblehead Dad: 25 Life Lessons I Forgot I Knew
