Breakfast With Dad Keeps Family First

David Houser first learned about the All Pro Dad program about four years ago. He took the step of becoming a Team Captain with the organization last year. He figured it would be a great element to bring to Hammond Elementary, where his children attend.

"I really thought it would be a great thing especially for our school which is brand new," Houser said. "You always want to get involvement from parents especially in a new school."

All Pro Dad is an outgrowth of Tony Dungy's Family First Initiative. The program helps men become better fathers. AllProDad.com is a one-stop resource where dads can find encouragement, ideas, information and videos. All Pro Dads host monthly breakfast meetings at their children’s schools.

Houser organizes the monthly All Pro Dad breakfast at Hammond.

"The thought of having a real active dad group in our schools was important," he said.

The dad breakfast happens in Hammond's cafeteria.

"The first thing we do is each dad stands up and tells why they're proud of their child," Houser said.

After breakfast, the group discusses various topics from how to encourage your children, to money management for kids to academic achievement. Allprodad.com provides curriculum to guide the discussion.

"The kid gets to hear that from their dad and that's a special time for the kids. We give the kids a big round of applause," Houser said. "I really believe in the message, it's all about family first and strengthening families and taking responsibility and being there for your kids."

About 25-30 people usually attend the morning meetings, which happen at 7am.

"I think the time commitment is convenient," Houser said. "It doesn't cut into work time or sports practices."

And the meetings usually draw more than just dads. Moms, grandmothers, uncles and family friends have attended, Houser said.

"It's for anyone who wants to have a stronger relationship with the child in their life," he said.

For more information on All Pro Dad go to their website: www.allprodad.com. To find out if there's an All Pro Dad breakfast at your child's school check the list here: http://www.allprodad.com/apdd/find.php