Brilliant Dad Feature Week 111

This week our brilliant dad feature is James. He is a social media specialist and a new dad. He moved from England to Canada a few years ago and says he is loving every minute. As he bumbles along in his new role as a father, he writes down his lessons, tips, and advice that he picks up along the way. A lot of which can be found on his blog Socialdad.ca

Thank you very much to James for taking part.

 1. Have you always wanted to be a dad?

Yes, it’s always been in some sort of ‘life plan’, even when I was young. I remember that I wanted to grow up, have a job, be married and raise a family. I never wanted to be an astronaut, just a loving Dad like my own.

2. How did you feel when your children were born?

Nerve-wrecked, amazed, daunted, and couldn’t be happier. We had to do IVF for our daughter and hope that we can do it again to give her a little company. The whole process was full of steps which could be tripped on at any point. Once we crossed a bridge, there was another one, so when we finally got there it was a huge relief.

3. What have been the most rewarding experiences been so far?

All the little things make my day. When she rests her head on my chest in the morning, or says “Dadda”, or even when she just smiles at me, it warms my heart. I know this sounds incredibly cheesy and gushingly emotional, but I’m having the time of my life.

4. What are some of funniest moments to have happened to you as a dad?

Whenever she says ‘hat’, I turn around to see something new on her head; a toy, a book, her dinner.

5. Have there been any situations with your children that you found difficult to cope with? 

Teething, sleep training, and a few colds have been pretty hard. I try to steel myself against being too upset when the more logical thing is to keep her best interests in mind. From getting her vaccinated to structured sleep routines, it is hard in the moment, but ultimately makes for a happier and healthier baby.

6. What are your dreams and hopes for your children? 

I really hope that she feels loved and supported in whatever she chooses to do with her life. We’re lucky to live in a beautiful part of the world (Vancouver, Canada) where society is open about all the different types of person you can grow up to be. As long as she’s a kind, eager, and loving person, I’ll be happy.