NYC DADS

DYCD, NYC DADS & the Bronx celebrate moms

Tue, 14 May 2013 13:34:28 -0400

The Bronx’s Edenwald Community Center turned it OUT for the moms this past Saturday. With close to 100 in attendance, the community got together to celebrate the vital role moms serve as caregivers and pillars to their children and families…. DYCD Deputy Commissioner Suzanne Lynn, Fatherhood Services Coordinator Alan Farrell, and NYC DADS Matter Award honoree Diogenes Mendez, with his wife, Grace, and their children, joined in for the talk, luncheon, arts and crafts, and kids’ performances that included poetry, dancing, and a show. “We all go through so much,” Grace Mendez said. “And we still want to do more for our children.” Honor that!

The 2013 NYC DADS Matter Nominations are Due!!!

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 13:41:37 -0400

The New York City Fatherhood Initiative is proud to present the Third Annual NYC DADS Matter Awards. The award will recognize 10 fathers from across the City who overcame challenges to become positive and consistent forces in the lives of their children. Do you know a great dad who has overcome the odds to play a positive and powerful role in the life of his child and his community?

Help us promote the importance of responsible fatherhood. Click here to nominate a dad today! Nominations are due Friday, April 26th

NYC GOV: New "Link" Initiative to Connect Low-Income NYers with Economic Opportunities

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 15:22:18 -0400

NYC GOV: New "Link" Initiative to Connect Low-Income NYers with Economic Opportunities:

nycgov:

The Link- Leveraging Innovations and our Neighborhoods in the Knowledge economy- Initiative includes 8 new programs designed to connect low-income New Yorkers with opportunities in the city’s knowledge economy. The programs are designed to strengthen the skills and employability of New…

March "Dadness" is a Slam Dunk with Dads and Kids

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 14:47:03 -0400

On a chilly Sunday at Chelsea Piers sports center in Manhattan, dozens of New York City dads got their kids a little help with their basketball game from Hall of Fame coach Gene Keady and the St. John’s University Basketball Camps staff, as well as coach Kennard Robinson from CCNY and coach Allen Fields from Medgar Evers College.

Over 80 kids, from aspiring NBA ballers to those taking their first shot at the hoop, took part in drills designed to build shooting and passing skills and general fitness. Click here to read the whole story.

The NYC PARENT ACADEMY

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 14:12:00 -0400

The NYC Parent Academy is excited to continue offering borough-wide workshops across the city. These free workshops provide training, resources, and support to parents who want to become more informed and involved in …their children’s education and school.

Please share the following information with your school community and encourage parents and school leaders to participate in these workshops.

Brooklyn Borough-Wide Workshop
Saturday, March 23
9 a.m.-1 p.m. (breakfast at 8:30 a.m.)
P.S. 156/I.S. 392 Waverly School of Arts
Address: 104 Sutter Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11212
District: 23
Registration Link:
www.nycpamar23.eventzilla.net
Topics:
“Partnership Standard 3: Creating Welcoming Schools”
“Understanding Common Core Learning Standards, Standardized Tests, and Response to Intervention”
Share the flyer in Arabic, Bengali, Chinese, English, French, Haitian Creole, Korean, Russian, Spanish, and Urdu.

Manhattan Borough-Wide Workshop
Monday, March 25
9 a.m.-1 p.m. (breakfast at 8:30 a.m.)
New York Historical Society
Address: 70 Central Park West, Manhattan, NY 10024
District: 3
Registration Link:
www.nycpamar25.eventzilla.net
Topics:
“Partnership Standard 3: Creating Welcoming Schools”
“Understanding Common Core Learning Standards, Standardized Tests, and Response to Intervention”
Share the flyer in Arabic, Bengali, Chinese, English, French, Haitian Creole, Korean, Russian, Spanish, and Urdu.

Queens Borough-Wide Workshop
Saturday, April 6
9 a.m.-1 p.m. (breakfast at 8:30 a.m.)
Young Women’s Leadership School
Address: 150-91 87th Road, Queens, NY 11432
District: 28
Registration Link:
www.nycpaapr6.eventzilla.net
Topics:
“Partnership Standard 3: Creating Welcoming Schools”
“Identifying Resources/Local Organizations to Support Your Child’s Learning and Developmental Needs”
Share the flyer in Arabic, Bengali, Chinese, English, French, Haitian Creole, Korean, Russian, Spanish, and Urdu.

For more information, visit www.nycparentacademy.org.

Thank you for your support,

Division of Family and Community Engagement
Parents & Families webpage: schools.nyc.gov/ParentsFamilies

March "Dadness" Launch

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 13:48:09 -0500

NYC DADS will be hosting a March “Dadness” basketball clinic to launch a year of encouraging dads to develop their relationships with their kids through good times and getting fit. For this clinic, you MUST register, and the kids have to be in 6th grade or lower. There are limited spaces available. We’re looking forward to a great time!

Dads, Become a Parent Leader

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 13:43:58 -0500

Calling all dads! More fathers are becoming parent leaders in our school system. Read this article to see what’s happening in NYC. From February 13th - March 13th you can apply to serve on a Community Educational Council. Community Education Councils (CECs) are responsible for reviewing and evaluating schools’ instructional programs, approving zoning lines, and advising the Chancellor. CECs play an essential role in shaping education policies for the New York City public schools. Go to nycparentleaders.org to learn more and apply to lead today!

Don't Miss out; Get Your Tax Credit

Tue, 08 Jan 2013 17:21:13 -0500

Working families earning less than $50,270 could be eligible for up to $7,953 from the EITC alone

The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a refundable credit that returns federal, State, and New York City tax dollars to qualifying families and individuals to help cover basic expenses. The refund amount varies depending on your income and marital and parental status.

For more information, go here: http://on.nyc.gov/zDcgxU

Music for Autism at the Brooklyn Public Library

Mon, 07 Jan 2013 16:51:00 -0500

Music for Autism Presents: La Familia Sextet

On Saturday, January 19th, from 1 -2pm

It is sure to be a great afternoon of free jazz, for all ages!

The entire program in bilingual (Spanish and English) including the performance, staff and volunteers.

Brooklyn Heights Library

280 Cadman Plaza

Brooklyn, NY 11201

You must register for this event at www.musicforautism.org/rsvp.php.

Also, Please find on their website a social story in Spanish titled Mi Concierto de “Music for Autism”

http://www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org/sites/default/files/files/mi%20concerto%20de%20music%20for%20autism.pdf

Call 718.253.4948 for more information

Music for Autism presenta:
La Familia Sextet

¡Le invitamos a disfrutar de una tarde
de jazz gratis para todas las edades!

El programa es bilingüe. Español y inglés.

Sábado, 19 de enero
1 – 2 PM

Biblioteca de Brooklyn Heights
280 Cadman Plaza West
Brooklyn, NY 11201
718.253.4948

Una Historia Social Mi Concierto de “Music for Autism”

http://www.brooklynpubliclibrary.org/sites/default/files/files/mi%20concerto%20de%20music%20for%20autism.pdf

Es necesario registrarse para este evento en
www.musicforautism.org/rsvp.php

Talking to Children about Violence

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 16:10:45 -0500

Below is an article from The Center for School Mental Health which discusses ways to talk to children about violence. This resource can be used to speak with your child about the tragic events that took place in Newtown, Connecticut on Friday.

Talking to Children About Violence: Tips for Parents and Teachers

High profile acts of violence, particularly in schools, can confuse and frighten children who may feel in danger or worry that their friends or loved-ones are at risk. They will look to adults for information and guidance on how to react. Parents and school personnel can help children feel safe by establishing a sense of normalcy and security and talking with them about their fears.

1. Reassure children that they are safe. Emphasize that schools are very safe. Validate their feelings. Explain that all feelings are okay when a tragedy occurs. Let children talk about their feelings, help put them into perspective, and assist them in expressing these feelings appropriately.

2. Make time to talk. Let their questions be your guide as to how much information to provide. Be patient. Children and youth do not always talk about their feelings readily. Watch for clues that they may want to talk, such as hovering around while you do the dishes or yard work. Some children prefer writing, playing music, or doing an art project as an outlet. Young children may need concrete activities (such as drawing, looking at picture books, or imaginative play) to help them identify and express their feelings.

3. Keep your explanations developmentally appropriate.

• Early elementary school children need brief, simple information that should be balanced with reassurances that their school and homes are safe and that adults are there to protect them. Give simple examples of school safety like reminding children about exterior doors being locked, child monitoring efforts on the playground, and emergency drills practiced during the school day.

• Upper elementary and early middle school children will be more vocal in asking questions about whether they truly are safe and what is being done at their school. They may need assistance separating reality from fantasy. Discuss efforts of school and community leaders to provide safe schools.

• Upper middle school and high school students will have strong and varying opinions about the causes of violence in schools and society. They will share concrete suggestions about how to make school safer and how to prevent tragedies in society. Emphasize the role that students have in maintaining safe schools by following school safety guidelines (e.g. not providing building access to strangers, reporting strangers on campus, reporting threats to the school safety made by students or community members, etc.), communicating any personal safety concerns to school administrators, and accessing support for emotional needs.

4. Review safety procedures. This should include procedures and safeguards at school and at home. Help children identify at least one adult at school and in the community to whom they go if they feel threatened or at risk.

5. Observe children’s emotional state. Some children may not express their concerns verbally. Changes in behavior, appetite, and sleep patterns can indicate a child’s level of anxiety or discomfort. In most children, these symptoms will ease with reassurance and time. However, some children may be at risk for more intense reactions. Children who have had a past traumatic experience or personal loss, suffer from depression or other mental illness, or with special needs may be at greater risk for severe reactions than others. Seek the help of mental health professional if you are at all concerned.

6. Limit television viewing of these events. Limit television viewing and be aware if the television is on in common areas. Developmentally inappropriate information can cause anxiety or confusion, particularly in young children. Adults also need to be mindful of the content of conversations that they have with each other in front of children, even teenagers, and limit their exposure to vengeful, hateful, and angry comments that might be misunderstood.

7. Maintain a normal routine. Keeping to a regular schedule can be reassuring and promote physical health. Ensure that children get plenty of sleep, regular meals, and exercise. Encourage them to keep up with their schoolwork and extracurricular activities but don’t push them if they seem overwhelmed.

Suggested Points to Emphasize When Talking to Children

• Schools are safe places. School staff work with parents and public safety providers (local police and fire departments, emergency responders, hospitals, etc.) to keep you safe.

• The school building is safe because … (cite specific school procedures).

• We all play a role in the school safety. Be observant and let an adult know if you see or hear something that makes you feel uncomfortable, nervous or frightened.

• There is a difference between reporting, tattling or gossiping. You can provide important information that may prevent harm either directly or anonymously by telling a trusted adult what you know or hear.

• Don’t dwell on the worst possibilities. Although there is no absolute guarantee that something bad will never happen, it is important to understand the difference between the possibility of something happening and the probability that it will affect our school.

• Senseless violence is hard for everyone to understand. Doing things that you enjoy, sticking to your normal routine, and being with friends and family help make us feel better and keep us from worrying about the event.

• Sometimes people do bad things that hurt others. They may be unable to handle their anger, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or suffering from mental illness. Adults (parents, teachers, police officers, doctors, faith leaders) work very hard to get those people help and keep them from hurting others. It is important for all of us to know how to get help if we feel really upset or angry and to stay away from drugs and alcohol.

• Stay away from guns and other weapons. Tell an adult if you know someone has a gun. Access to guns is one of the leading risk factors for deadly violence.

• Violence is never a solution to personal problems. Students can be part of the positive solution by participating in anti-violence programs at school, learning conflict mediation skills, and seeking help from an adult if they or a peer is struggling with anger, depression, or other emotions they cannot control.

Queens Dads take their kids to school

Tue, 04 Dec 2012 11:54:00 -0500

This morning, over 300 fathers came out to a Dads Take Your Child to School Day event at PS 13 in Elmhurst Queens. Chancellor Dennis Walcott made remarks to the fathers over breakfast. Alan Farrell, the city’s Fatherhood Services Coordinator, also spoke to more than 200 fathers during the program in the auditorium. Jesse Mojica, ED of DOE Family and Community Engagement joined along with Mike Bobbitt, Director of Fatherhood Initiative at DYCD. Check out these beautiful T-shirts that PS 13Q made!

Dad’s T-shirt Child’s T-shirt

The NYC DADS Halloween Party is Next Week!

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 17:23:48 -0400

For more information, go to this link:http://on.nyc.gov/RFqNvn

Parents as Partners Week

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 13:48:01 -0400

Parents, take an active part in your kids’ schooling! Take part in the seminars during the week of October 15. For more information, go here: http://schools.nyc.gov/ParentsFamilies/parentsaspartners

Good times, good stories, great dads

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 12:21:00 -0400

The past month has been busy for NYC DADS and the hard-working fathers of the Big Apple, but we managed to get out and have some fun with our kids. Click the banners to read the stories of two great events, which brought dads out to play and support their children.

More Pics from Dads Take Your Child to School Day

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 15:47:00 -0400

Dads Take Your Child to School Day Sweeps the City - with the Brooklyn Nets!

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 13:31:00 -0400

Deron Williams, Keith Bogans and Jerry Stackhouse, super stars of the new Brooklyn Nets, joined dads across the city who helped bring their kids to school today. The ball players marched with Chancellor Dennis Walcott, DYCD Commissioner Jeanne Mullgrav and the dads and the kids as they went to three schools (PS 6, PS 20 and PS 46). Speeches were made at PS 67, and hearts were moved as fathers stepped up. “There was a hurt in my heart,” Williams told the kids and their dads, speaking of what it felt like for him to not have a dad around. But, as a father of four, he’s making up for that; “I am very active in my children’s lives,” he said, to a round of applause. Go Nets! Go Brooklyn! Go dads!

Kids, Bikes and Dads--what a great day!

Sat, 15 Sep 2012 14:21:48 -0400

Bike New York, NYC DADS, Commissioner Doar, Chancellor Walcott and dozens of dads and their kids came out for a beautiful day of fun and learning with “Learn to Bike” at PS 180. From no pedals to those first wobbly trips around the track, the kids did great—and so did the dads! “This is a pivotal moment in a child’s life, learning to ride a bike,” said Chancellor Walcott, who tries to ride several times a week himself. As Louis, one dad said; “A moment like this, you just don’t want to miss.”

September 20th: Dads, take your kids to school

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 12:00:00 -0400

Take your kids to school, and be a part of the movement that’s sweeping the city and the state. If you want to help organize, sign up for the webinair that’s happening on 9/11 at 3pm: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/693987345.

Dads, kids, bikes, alright!

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 11:57:06 -0400

We’re getting geared up for the September 15 “Learn to Bike” event. Please note that if dad is not available, mom can bring the kids. Preregistration is required!

Take Dads out to the Ballgame!

Wed, 29 Aug 2012 14:53:00 -0400

There are few things more heart-warming and American than a baseball game. Well, there’s this: a father who calls his daughter, “the most precious thing in the world to me.”

That’s what Victor said of Faith, his 13-year-old who sat beside him at the Brooklyn Cyclones game against the Staten Island Yankees in Coney Island. Victor and dads from across the city joined Human Resources Administration Commissioner Robert Doar at the game as part of the August celebration of Child Support Month. The Office of Child Support collected three quarters of a billion dollars for three quarter of a million kids in New York last year, and the department wanted to thank dads for supporting their kids.

For the dads who came out to the game, giving to their children is really its own reward. “She is part of my American dream,” says Victor, who emigrated from Nigeria in the early 1990s. There was an easy smile on Faith’s face, as she listened to her dad carry on about her many accomplishments as a dancer. “Your child is your child. I shouldn’t be given a present to be a good father. But this is nice.”

Harold, a father from Staten Island who brought his two sons and god son, agreed: “I don’t expect anything in return for being a dad. This is my job.”

Gary Jenkins, HRA assistant deputy commissioner of NYC’s Food Stamp Program, and also a father of three, was beaming proudly, having watched his daughter, Morgan, throw the ceremonial first pitch (along with Commissioner Doar’s son, Bobby) of the game. “That’s something we’ll remember for a lifetime,” Jenkins said. “It warms my heart to be involved.”

And Jenkins, looking out at the field as the sun set (and as the Cyclones clobbered the Yankees), added; “Being rewarded for doing something one is supposed to do is not something I necessarily need. But, of course, it’s nice to be recognized.”