What do making paper airplanes, coloring pictures and creating pipe cleaner creatures all have in common? These are great, simple ways for dads to bond with their kids—and beyond that, they’re also all activities featured in Good Dads Strong Schools events!
Believe it or not, the simple act of building a paper bridge or playing a game of catch in the morning before school starts can teach important skills that can translate to school success.
But don’t take our word for it! Just ask father-daughter duo Rick and Daisy Gideon. Daisy is going into fifth grade at Bissett Elementary in Springfield, MO, and she’s been going to Good Dads Strong Schools with her dad for a long time.
Daisy told us her favorite part of Good Dads Strong School is that “I get to spend time with my dad early in the morning before he leaves to go to work.” Rick works long hours as a diesel mechanic, so Daisy would often not see him until the evening.
Even though Rick says he’s more of an introvert, he enjoys being present with his daughter during Strong Schools morning events. He said that they provide one-on-one time with Daisy, “without the hubbub.”
“(Strong Schools) is a legitimate reason to miss work for an hour,” Rick joked. “I like it; it reminds me of when I was a kid.”
The duo bond at home through video games and outdoor activities such as riding 4-wheelers and kicking around soccer balls. Daisy enjoys spending time with her father and relishes the additional opportunity to spend time with him.
“He loves me, and he takes care of me, and he’s the type of dad that I would want to have forever,” she said.
For Rick, Strong Schools events highlight the great aspects of being a dad: teaching your child something new (and learning a thing or two). This combo provides an environment for children to grow and a chance for dads to spend time with them.
“Be there, listen and show up,” Rick said of what it takes to be a good dad.
Rick also has three older sons, and he says he wished he could have participated in Strong Schools with them when they were younger. He encourages dads to spread the word on Strong Schools to fellow fathers.
“Being a dad is awesome,” he said. “I’m glad schools are dragging dads into this. Schools that don’t have it should try to get their dads at work to get it.
Want to support our efforts to get more fathers and students creating meaningful morning memories? Make a difference: Donate to support Good Dads Strong Schools today! Generous support from everyday people helps us bring a top-notch education to elementary students throughout Missouri.
