Today, my husband to took the kids to a free ‘Build and Grow’ program at Lowe’s. They get to do fun projects. They’re given the tools, materials, an apron, goggles and receive a patch for their accomplishments. Before you say, “Wait a minute. She’s cheating! It’s ‘meaningful mama’ not ‘meaningful dada’,” let me explain. This post is intentional. I think a part of being a good mom is really encouraging our husbands as they get involved in our kids lives. I have an amazing husband who is a very involved father. He has made it a priority. In the same breath, I encourage it. I know a lot of women who don’t give their husbands enough of a chance. Some men don’t naturally know how to engage their children. Others just don’t take initiative. They are good hearted men that just don’t know quite where to begin. I would encourage you to, in a loving way, help initiate activities between your children and their dad. Gentle nudging will go a long way. If this doesn’t work, don’t nag – pray. I think dad’s often need reminders of how to get involved with their kids. “I think it would mean a lot to (insert name) if you took her out to the salon to get her nails done before her big dance.” “Lowe’s does a free ‘Build and Grow’ activity. I bet the kids would love doing that with you. Would you want me to sign you up?” “What would you enjoy doing with the kids this weekend?” I’ve seen too many women be bitter that their guy isn’t helping or taking initiative, but when you really examine it, they don’t ask for the help and take control when their guy isn’t doing it right. Yes, sometimes my kids get more ice cream than I would prefer when I’m not around, but I think the relationship that is being built there is much more important. I’m going to add in a couple of pictures of a project Abby did at the ‘Build and Grow’ program when she was two.
