DIY Parenting: Learning the Ropes When You Grew Up Without One
Tuesday, January 02, 2024
DIY Parenting: Learning the Ropes When You Grew Up Without One
You know, I've always been pretty open about my past. Growing up, solid parental figures weren't really part of my life's picture. So, when I took the leap into starting my own family, guess what? I headed straight for therapy. Not just because I thought I needed it, but because I really wanted to give my family the absolute best of me.
And it's been an eye-opener. It's like peeling back layers, discovering wounds I never knew I had. Honestly? It's been tough. Really tough.
But here's the thing - I've been super lucky to have this amazing partner, my husband, right by my side. He's my rock. He's been there, supporting me, helping keep our family strong and together. I couldn’t be more grateful.
In fact, if you’re asking me what my biggest goal in raising my kids is…
Well, here it is: I want them to have a childhood they don't need to heal from.
I had this incredible chat with Rossana Burgos (she's fantastic, by the way!) on one of my earlier podcasts. We dove right into this topic. As someone who's been through a lot of inner-child healing, I know the struggle.
It's something I’d never want my kids to go through. NOT EVER…
So, if you’re out there, maybe you're a single mom, or a parent without that parental figure in your life, and you're aiming to give your kids the best, making sure they never feel something's missing – this blog's for you.
YouTube to the Rescue: "Dad, How Do I?"
Isn't there just something incredibly touching about a parent extending their love and care to kids they've never met before? It really tugs at the heartstrings.
I came across this article once, and I swear, it made my heart swell with so much emotion. It was about this incredible father at Pittsburgh's Pride Parade. He wore a "Free Dad Hugs" T-shirt, and the way he embraced kids who had been rejected by their own parents... it was beyond beautiful. The sheer warmth and acceptance in each hug, it was like watching love in its purest form. It really makes you believe in the goodness in people, you know?
And then there's this online gem I found – a YouTube channel called "Dad, How Do I?" I can't even begin to describe how much this channel means to many out there. It's run by Rob Kenney, a guy who grew up without a dad himself, and now he's filling that gap for others. He's the YouTube dad hero we never knew we needed. Whether it's tying a tie, fixing a doorknob, or cooking spaghetti, he's there, guiding you through each step.
I know what you might be thinking – aren't there loads of tutorial videos online? Yep, there sure are. Experts teaching all sorts of things. But here's the thing: do they teach with the warmth and patience of a parent? That's where Rob Kenney truly shines.
His way of teaching, the fatherly care and wisdom he brings to each video, it's something so special. That's because he offers a piece of that fatherly love and guidance that some of us missed out on.
It's these kinds of stories, these kinds of people, that remind us of the incredible power of kindness and the enduring spirit of parental love.
So, if you ever feel a gap in your heart where a parent's guidance should be, remember channels like "Dad, How Do I?" are there to fill it with warmth.
Letting Kids Be Kids
In our latest podcast, Nathan said something that made me laugh, not because it’s funny, but because it hits me right to the bone! He said that every sibling has a different set of parents.
And how true is that?!
Each sibling really does experience a different version of their parents. As we grow and learn from raising one child, we're slightly different with the next. We're constantly evolving, and so is our parenting style. It's kind of fascinating when you think about it.
And this brings me to another heartfelt point – the absolute importance of being supportive of what our kids want. Whether they dream of being artists, engineers, or anything in-between, our role is to be their cheerleaders.
Our support can be the wind beneath their wings.
If your kid wants to grab a hammer instead of sitting in front of a computer, let them!
If they're more into painting than playing sports, that's okay too.
Our job isn't to mold them into who we think they should be, but to encourage them to discover and be their true selves. Let us let them explore, make mistakes, and find their own path. And as they navigate their journey, our unwavering support is what will make all the difference.
Skilled Trades for the Win
Oh, let me tell you about this fantastic bit from our recent podcast chat with Nathan – it's super exciting! Nathan's about to launch something truly special: Concor University. Now, this isn't just any university.
We're talking about a place dedicated to teaching young men and women real, hands-on skilled trades. Imagine a space where practical skills are king and can really shape the future.
And you know what really sparked Nathan's inspiration for this? It's the simple, yet powerful idea that there's absolutely nothing wrong with choosing a skilled trade job over sitting at a desk all day. He's challenging the norm, showing that being hands-on and mastering a trade can be just as, if not more, fulfilling and rewarding. It's about breaking free from the conventional mindset and embracing the dignity and artistry in skilled labor.
This is where Concor University comes into play, and it's such a brilliant concept, especially for kids who didn't have a father figure growing up.
Think about it – where do you learn those essential life skills, like fixing a leaky faucet or wiring a light fixture, if you don't have someone to show you the ropes? Concor University is set to bridge that gap, offering practical, real-world skills that go beyond the traditional academic curriculum.
It's a place where young people can learn, grow, and find their path in trades that are essential to our everyday lives.
We're talking carpentry, plumbing, electrical work – the skills that keep our world running. And more than that, it's about instilling confidence, independence, and a sense of accomplishment in these young learners.
Wrapping Up
Whether you're a single parent giving it your all, someone who's still piecing the puzzle of life together, or hey, maybe you're someone who just thrives on getting those hands dirty and creating something tangible – our podcast with Nathan is something you won't want to miss.
It's more than just a talk; it's a journey through learning, growing, and understanding the importance of supporting each other. It's the perfect listen to kickstart your year with a spark of inspiration!
Who knows? You might just find the inspiration to pick up that hammer or finally master that tie!
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