• Screen time and children, and you
    Feb 5 2024
    Navigating screen time with your kids [Upbeat Music Playing] Host: Welcome, dear listeners, to another thought-provoking episode of the "Dad Shoes Podcast" – the show that helps you step into the challenges of modern fatherhood with confidence and purpose. I'm your host, [Your Name], and I am your other host [your name] and today, we're going to tackle a topic that's been on every dad's mind: navigating screen time. [Sound of Kids Playing] Host: Picture this: It's the 21st century, and screens are an inseparable part of our lives. Smartphones, tablets, computers, and televisions have become constant companions, especially for our children. But as dads, we're left grappling with a complex question - how do we help our kids navigate the digital landscape while fostering a healthy balance? [Thoughtful Pause] Host: In this episode, we're diving headfirst into the world of screen time: the good, the bad, and the strategies that'll help us find our footing. We'll explore how to make informed choices, set boundaries, and ensure that screen time serves as a tool for learning and connection rather than a digital babysitter. [Sound of Knowing Nods] Host: Whether you're a tech-savvy dad or still adjusting to the digital age, we've got insights and ideas that will resonate with you. We'll bring together personal stories, expert advice, and relatable experiences, all designed to help you tackle this vital aspect of parenting. [Laughter and Connection] Host: So, slip into your comfy dad shoes, find a cozy spot, and let's embark on this journey of exploring the digital world with our kids. [Music Swells] Host: We'll delve into questions like, "What's the impact of screen time on children's development?" "How do you set healthy boundaries?" and "What are the best practices for managing screen time at different ages?" [Music Fades Out] Host: But before we dive in, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the Dad Shoes Podcast on your preferred platform. Your feedback means the world to us, and it keeps us motivated to continue sharing valuable insights for the modern dad. [Upbeat Music Returns] Host: So, settle in, relax, and join us in our quest to master the art of navigating screen time with our children. It's a journey that holds the promise of stronger family bonds, informed choices, and confident parenting. [Music Fades Out] “Tell me about your kids relationship with screen time” Pull out your phone, what are your personal screen time numbers right now. Segment 1: The Impact of Prolonged Screen Time - Connor is the expert Parents may not always know what their children are viewing, or how much time they are spending with screens. Children may be exposed to: Violence and risk-taking behaviorsVideos of stunts or challenges that may inspire unsafe behaviorChive tv is my favorite thing to watch at sports bar Sexual contentNegative stereotypesSubstance useCyberbullies and predatorsAdvertising aimed at your childMisleading or inaccurate information Too much screen time may lead to: Sleep problemsJohnny’s kids are hard to put down.Connor stopped watching youtube with the kids and they are easier to put down. Lower grades in schoolReading fewer booksLess time with family and friendsNot enough outdoor or physical activityWeight problemsMood problemsWe have to take the tablets away periodically. Poor self-image and body image issuesFear of missing outLess time learning other ways to relax and have funI hate being told that my kids are bored so they want to play on their tablets…. I almost hated to include this list because I don't want to sound like fear mongers. Sure they are things that could happen, but unless the screen time is out of control I think you will be able to manage Discuss the findings from the News-Medical article on the sustained increase in children's screen time after COVID-19 restrictions were lifted.Share statistics on the amount of screen time kids typically consume. Sources: News-Medical - In the Wake of COVID Restrictions Being Lifted, Kids' Screen Time Has Remained HighAACAP - Children and Watching TV Segment 2: The Importance of Setting Screen Time Limits and Content Parameters Discuss the Mayo Clinic's recommendations on the importance of setting screen time limits.The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages media use, except for video chatting, by children younger than 18 months. If you introduce digital media to children ages 18 to 24 months, make sure it's high quality and avoid solo media use. For children ages 2 to 5, limit screen time to one hour a day of high-quality programming. “A University of Cambridge study found that the brainwaves of adults and babies synchronize when they hold eye contact. Signaling the availability and intention to communicate might synchronize when it is time to speak and when to listen, which would make learning more effective.” - psychology todayShare practical strategies for parents on how to establish these limits and ...
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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • How to Find a Babysitter
    Jan 1 2024
    Welcome, dear listeners, to our first exciting episode of the (relaunch) of the "Dad Shoes Podcast" – the show where we explore the convoluted world of modern parenthood, one step at a time. I’m your host (Johnny) And I am our other host (Connor), and today, we're diving headfirst into a topic that's as essential as a trusty pair of dad shoes when it comes to parenting: hiring a babysitter. Because the first thing we want to talk about on our parenting podcast is how to get away from your kids. Picture this scenario: It's a Saturday evening, and you and your partner are desperate for a date night. You've been knee-deep in diaper changes, school pickups, and superhero bedtime stories all week. What are you going to do? Finding the perfect babysitter who not only cares for your kids but also shares your values and parenting style. In today's episode, we're here to guide you through the process, from initial search to the moment you step out the door and maybe a little bit about what you are going to do with this new found ‘me’ time. Or ‘us’ time for you and your partner! We'll be sharing some researched tips, and sprinkle in a little from our own experiences, as we try to answer some of the biggest questions parents face when trying to hire a babysitter. Whether you're a seasoned parent or one soon-to-be, we've got you covered. So, grab a comfy chair, slip into your favorite dad shoes, and let's embark on this babysitter-hunting journey together. But before we jump in, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review the Dad Shoes Podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Your feedback means the world to us, and it helps us continue bringing you invaluable insights and heartwarming stories from the frontlines of parenthood. So, sit back, relax, and lace up those dad shoes, because today, we're diving into the world of hiring a babysitter. So we have 5 questions we think you need to ask when trying to hire a babysitter: How do I even find a babysitter? How do I vet a babysitter? How do I prep the kids/my house? How much do I pay a babysitter? And finally, what do I do while the house and kids are covered? That last one is probably easier to answer than you think. But before we get into all that… How do I find a babysitter If only there was a website where it was just as easy to find a babysitter as it is to find a ride. Turns out there is! https://www.urbansitter.com/ https://www.care.com/babysitters https://www.indeed.com/hire/how-to-hire/babysitter - how to hire a babysitter Some suggestions from Indeed Ask around the neighborhood. Asking neighbors may lead to teenagers or young adults who are qualified to look after your children and seeking an income. Ask your coworkers. Your coworkers may have qualified teenagers, nieces and nephews who can take care of your children. Post help wanted signs around the community. Putting up posters around the neighborhood may create leads and generate quality candidates to watch your children. Check online sites for the right candidate. There may be some potential caretakers who have posted on popular internet sites looking for work. Post your job online. Try posting your babysitter job on Indeed to find and attract quality babysitter candidates. Ask your friends and family, maybe there is a cousin or a grandma who would love to help out. Community connections! For me that means church, is there an event you can take them too. Our church does parents night out once a month. Who else watches your kids? Ask their teachers, coaches, activity leaders. Maybe they are looking for a little extra side hustle and it's someone you and your kids already know. It is likely they know other parents who have babysitters and help you find someone with experience. I used to work in Aftercare in an elementary school and we could put our names on a babysitting list if we were interested in working over time. How do I vet a babysitter? Interviewing babysitter candidates Strong candidates for babysitter positions will be confident answering questions regarding: Discipline techniques • How they manage multiple children • Their experience working with children Need help coming up with interview questions? See our list of babysitter interview questions for examples (with sample answers). Do you smoke or vape? Do you drink? Do you have a valid driver's license, insurance, a clean record? Do you do drugs? Do you know CPR/first aid? Tell me about your family. How do you plan to entertain kids? (CUT)If you were hiring a babysitter for your own kids, what would YOU look for? Can 11-year-olds babysit? There is no legal minimum age for babysitting work. The minimum age to take a babysitting course with the Red Cross is 11, and the average age that people start babysitting is from 11 to 14 years old. How do you prepare you house and kids for a babysitter? Prepare your kids, and prepare you home. ...
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    45 mins
  • Dad Shoes Podcast Promo
    Dec 15 2023

    Hey parents! Ready to navigate modern parenthood in style? Slip into your Dad Shoes and join us on the Dad Shoes Podcast. We tackle one burning parenting question each episode, bringing in experts and doing the research so you don't have to.

    From screen time struggles to bedtime battles, we've got you covered. Subscribe now on your favorite platform, leave a review, and let's make this parenting journey a little less confusing and a lot more fun. Dad Shoes Podcast – your go-to guide in the chaotic world of parenting!

    Lace up, hit play, and let's dive into the adventure together. See you there! Find us @dadshoespod on instagram and on the web at DadShoesPod.com

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    2 mins