As a dad, you’re a role model, whether you realize it or not. Your kids watch you, listen to you, and absorb your attitudes about the world. That’s a powerful responsibility!
That includes learning, growing, and expanding your understanding about disabilities, even if you don’t have direct experience with them in your family or professional life.
Why? Because building a more inclusive world starts with us. It starts with the conversations we have, the examples we set, and the questions we’re brave enough to ask. If we want our kids to embrace diversity and celebrate differences, we need to show them how.
As a father balancing all the things, how do you keep expanding your capacity for empathy and understanding? You would need a place to have these conversations and ask these questions in a safe and supportive environment. That’s where Dads Nite Out comes in.
I started Dads Nite Out to create a space for dads to connect, share their experiences, and support each other on the journey of fatherhood. We meet monthly at the historic Lincoln Mill in Manayunk, sharing stories, insights, and maybe even a few laughs (usually over a beer at the brew pub next door). It’s a chance to step out of the daily grind, connect with other dads who “get it,” and gain some fresh perspective.
But Dads Nite Out is more than just a social gathering. It’s a place where we can challenge our assumptions, expand our understanding of the world, and become better role models for our kids. That’s why I’m so excited about our next gathering on January 14th, featuring the powerful documentary “Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution.”
This film tells the story of a summer camp for teenagers with disabilities that became a catalyst for the disability rights movement. It’s a story about community, advocacy, and the fight for inclusion. And it’s a perfect opportunity for dads to learn, reflect, and discuss how we can create a more just and equitable world for all our children.
I’m also thrilled to announce that Neill Hartley, Artistic Director for Acting Without Boundaries, will be our distinguished co-chair for the evening. Acting Without Boundaries is an incredible organization that transforms the lives of people with physical disabilities through the performing arts. Their mission resonates deeply with the message of “Crip Camp” and the values of Dads Nite Out.
I was also recently interviewed for a podcast that’s flipping the script on how we view neurodiversity, arguing that it’s not a handicap but a superpower. Sarah Kernion from Saturday’s Story promotes the brilliant insight that employers and organizations can embrace neurodivergence to strengthen their mission.
Sarah’s idea really resonated with me. I have always believed, as a Positive Psychologist, that character strengths cut across disabilities.
Character strengths like creativity, honesty, and love of learning have nothing to do with whether or not someone has a disability. When we see people for who they are inside, for their unique talents and contributions, we empower them to thrive in their families, communities, and beyond. And that can make us all stronger.
So, dads, are you curious? Are you ready to learn, connect, and become a better role model for your kids? Join us for Dads Nite Out on January 14th for a screening of “Crip Camp” and a discussion that promises to be both insightful and inspiring.
Register here to secure your spot.
I can’t wait to meet you there!
Photo credit: Steve Honigsbaum/Netflix (photo taken at Camp Jened in a scene from “Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution.”)
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