Chicago Dads provides networking opportunities through activities such as "Dad's Night Out", playgroup activities for children, various other outings, and general camaraderie. We function as an informal volunteer association of independent groups and individuals. We believe the involvement of a father in the life of his child is beneficial to the child, and ultimately society as a whole. Most of us have made a conscious choice to be the primary care provider for their children. Some work full-time, part-time or work at-home. Some are retired or are at-home dads. We invite all involved fathers to network with us. As researcher Dr. Kyle Pruett says, "fathers have always parented differently than mothers...and father care is as essential as mother care for your child." For this belief and many others, you're an involved dad. ChicagoDads.com is here to help. This is the place to meet other dads from across the greater Chicagoland metropolitan area.
Feedback / changes / ideas for Chicago Dads group?
I'd like to use this thread to gather comments on future directions for the Chicago SAHD playgroup. I know over the past year we've picked up some new dads, while some of the "old guard" (like me) have become less active. I see no reason to keep things like they are now if it doesn't meet the needs of the current group of guys. So to kick things off, here are some random ideas I've had lately:
Historically the group has chosen to meet on Thursdays in the 10am-noon timeframe. This could be easily switched to a diffrent day, or maybe multiple days in a week, or different time.
short notice
Hi all,
Talia and I are hoping to get to the zoo today. Planning on getting there around 11:30 (hopefully). If anyone would like to join us or meet up there, give a ring. My cell is (630)951-0200.
Ariel
Imagine That / Movie Screening
We have been offered free tickets to an advance screening of "Imagine That" If you are interested in attending the movie please post below indicating how many tickets you would like.
Lincoln Park Green Market
Hi Guys,
I'm going to try and make it to the Lincoln Park Green Market today. I'm hoping to be there between 11-11:30 (nap dependent) till 12:30-1 depending on how hot we get and how many veggies I can carry. If anyone wouold like to join us, it's supposed to be a gorgeous day. My cell is (630)951-0200.
Ariel
Former Chicago AHD nominated for Emmy
Dustin Efird, a former at-home dad here in Chicago, is part of the Oprah Winfrey Show's set design team. They've been nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Achievement in Art Direction / Set Decoration / Scenic Design. Congratulations, Dustin!
Interview / filming request by Oprah Winfrey Show
Alright, I realize this is a controversial topic, what with the discussion in the other threads here about recent media representation of SAHDs, and of the Chicago Dads group less than stellar experience about a year ago with the 190 North piece at Oz Park.
April DNO -- tonight???
So today (Sunday April 26) is the last Sunday of the month. Since I don't see one already scheduled, how about we find a quiet place this evening for some brewskis? I could meetup sometime after 8PM. I'll post some suggested venues later, but if you have a favorite place, feel free to recommend them hehere. You can also text/sms me at 773-596-9612 if you want to get notified via your cellphone, if that's how you roll.
Thursday playgroup at Wrigley???
This Thursday is the day I tried to get 20 group tix for Chicago Dads dudes. Last Friday I went to Wrigley itself to avooid the $5 convenience fee for each ticket. There were 10 $11 tix available Thursday night, then 8 Friday morning, then 6 when I got there. Point being, I have one extra ticket if anyone with a kid under two is interested. Otherwise, there are still seats available in other parts of Wrigley. I tried to get pairs in our section (517) but there were none. I'm looking at it as spring training for me taking two kids to the ballpark by myself--to see how long they last.
Summer activity plans?
FYI, Chicago Park District summer programs registration begins this Monday April 20 at 9am sharp.
Just curious what everyone's plans will be. I sorta don't like the park district options because they seem to skew either to the 6-hour a day, 5 days a week plan, or the one day a week for one hour plan. Ideally I'd like something a little more flexible, and also more variety than just all soccer all the time, or gymnastics til you puke. Any ideas?