Daddy & Donuts

This morning I went to Summer’s school for a Daddy & Donuts get together. For reference, Summer is my girlfriend’s daughter. I think it was a first for both of us. My first time participating in this kind of school activity and her first time having an adult male who was happy to attend.

Summer is a monkey bar fanatic, so she wanted to play with me on them. While we were playing I overheard children asking friends where their father is. Sometimes the answer was the equivalent of, “He wasn’t able to come.” My dad was always available while I was growing up, so it was my first time seeing how sad the no-show dad’s make their children. I can’t help but think that Summer was one of those kids with her Dad, who doesn’t participate very often.

I wonder if the donuts are needed to lure the fathers into showing up, or whether it’s a bonus? I’d like to believe that it’s just a happy bonus. Krispy Kreme probably sees it as a great marketing opportunity.

It’s been many years since I spent any significant amount of time at an elementary school. Probably back in college helping my mom in her kindergarten class. I’m surprised that I still feel comfortable in the school environment.

In the fall I will be attending the parent/teacher conferences, which should prove valuable. My experience with teachers is that they want your support in helping your child to learn and they want you to respect them and the job they are trying to do. I respect and am in awe of the job that teachers are able to do, which is probably why I’ve always had great relationships with them.