More Services For Dads in NYC

In the past, I have mentioned several times that there are not enough parent services and support for dads in and around NYC. All too often when reading parenting magazines or surfing the internet do I see in big print, "Mommy & Me" classes. What about the DADS? Isn't "parent & me" or "caregiver & me" more appropriate, welcoming, and gender friendly? Don't they realize that a lot of dads are spending more quality time with their kids these days? In the near future, I hope they will realize that they need to incorporate more dads into the mix during the week & on weekends.

I was pleased when Gymboree agreed to partner with our NYC Dads Group and host a DADS ONLY EVENT this past Sunday, June 28th from 10 am - 11:30am. It was a great opportunity for ALL DADS including working dads, at-home dads, and freelance dads to spend some bonding time with their kids and connect with other dads on the WEEKEND. The relaxing & fun event included breakfast, instructional playtime, open gym time, dad conversations, and more at Gymboree Play & Music on the Upper East Side! They have agreed to host more of these types of Dad Only Events in the Fall when everyone is back from vacations and school is back in session.

Here is a quote from the parenting director of 92Y Tribeca, "In honor of our newly developing relationship with your NYC Dads group, we decided to name the new (during the week) daytime film series: CineMamas & Papas"
92YTribeca Daytime presents "CineMamas & Papas", a film series exclusively for caregivers and their babies. The sound is kept low and the lights high relative to movie theater norms and there is space to set-up a blanket or relax in a chair. Admission to the show is limited to infants 0-18 months old (free) and their accompanying adult caregivers (general admission).
Nursery University : Getting in is No Longer Child's Play
Fri, Jul 10, 2009, 11:00am, 92YTribeca, 200 Hudson Street, Purchase $ 12 Tickets
*this film series will be continued in the fall after this July 10th summer event.

Lastly, the uptown 92nd Street Y parenting center offers a unique class on Sunday mornings where dads can join other new dads and their babies for a lively discussion. This 5-week class starting in October, meets on Sunday mornings from 10:30am - 11:30am, so it does no interfere with your football schedule!

I look forward to seeing more parenting options for dads in NYC in the near future. Are there any other unique dads only events or "daddy & me" classes?