Father of three sons Brian Stranghoener didn’t know what he was getting into when his 4th grader, Hudson, brought home an informational flyer on a before-school breakfast program called Good Dads Strong Schools at his school, Bissett Elementary. Curious, Brian wanted to see what it was all about.
For Brian, he’s enjoyed watching his sons grow and see what kind of people they’re becoming. But it takes a lot to be a good dad. Listening and being involved in your child’s lives is important for Brian, which is why he wanted to check out this bonding opportunity in the form of Strong Schools.
When he joined Hudson for his first Strong Schools event, he wasn’t disappointed. He said he enjoyed the fact that the activities took place in Bissett’s large all-purpose space, rather than a typical classroom.
“It’s easier for dads and kids to interact with each other,” he said.
It’s no secret that fathers have busy schedules. However, Strong Schools was specifically designed for the working dad. Because Strong Schools activities occur before the school day starts, many dads can participate and still make it to work on time. For his part, Brian says Strong Schools is a great opportunity to take some time out of the day to spend time with Hudson.
“(Strong Schools) allows us to sit and have fun with each other,” he said.
Hudson says it’s cool whenever his dad gets to come to school, since typically, he’s only surrounded by teachers and friends, not parents.
“He helps people when they’re feeling lonely,” Hudson said of his father.
At a recent Good Dads Strong Schools meeting, Brian and Hudson enjoyed a new take on playing catch. In this activity, dads and students faced away from one another and attempted to toss a ball back and forth from behind! Hudson found the game both enjoyable and amusing.
Another thing many parents and students enjoy about Strong Schools is “Pride Time,” a moment at the end of each activity that allows participants to share what they like and are proud of in each other. These moments are helpful in not only boosting confidence, but they also serve to strengthen bonds between fathers and their kids. Hudson describes Brian as a fun dad who spends lots of quality time with him and his brothers, participating in both inside and outside activities.
“He cares about us and tries to spend time with us,” he said.
Brian is proud of his son, describing him as caring, hardworking and dedicated. He enjoys watching Hudson play baseball and persevere through moments where he could have given up.
Hudson says that after participating in Strong Schools with his dad, he’s noticed a stronger cooperative effort between the two of them.
“We’re stronger together now,” Hudson said. “We’re able to do more things and help each other out.”
Brian sees Strong Schools as a great bonding opportunity. He said it would be easy for many parents to get extra sleep in the morning. Instead, they’ve made spending time with their child a top priority.
“It’s nice to see more dads getting involved,” Brian said. “I would definitely recommend for parents to get involved in the program, and any schools that aren’t participating. It helps children to become stronger students, knowing they have a support system. Parent involvement helps: it makes better individuals and stronger families.”
Want to create more success stories like this father-son duo? Create a new kind of culture: where dad’s presence and participation in his students’ education is valued, celebrated and expected. Donate today, or bring Strong Schools to an elementary school in your area! Help fund bonding opportunities for young learners in your community to make memories with their fathers and father-figures.
