GREAT GAMES GEEK DADS SHOULD PLAY WITH THEIR KIDS

As a father, it is important that you spend time with your children. But, sometimes it may be difficult finding something to do, especially on those rainy days when everyone is bored and acting up. Well, this may be just the chance you were looking for to pull out a game that has been gathering dust on a closet shelf that the whole family can enjoy playing together. Turn off the electronics and spend some fun time interacting with one another with a board or card game. 

As you are probably already aware, there are copious amounts of games out there to choose from and it is impossible to have them all. Look for elements of game play that are enticing to your family and friends. Is strategy and skill important or is your crowd less serious and looking for games that involve luck and chance to win? Do you want battle royal matches where only one person is the victor or cooperative games where everyone teams together and you only win if everyone contributes together to reach an outcome. Here are a few suggestions of some games my own family has had some good times with: 

Ticket to Ride

Can you monopolize the best transportation routes on a map to create the best transportation company? There are a variety of different versions of this game like the original where players compete for train routes across the country or my kids' favorite version where you battle for cab fares around New York City. An amusing way to learn about landmarks and geography while engaging in some competitive fun. I love games that combine educational content while also being entertaining. Ticket to Ride does just that!

Carcassonne

In this game, you compete to build cities, roads, churches, and farms from tiles you select at random. There is a starter piece to get you going, and you have to attach the piece you pick somewhere on the board, obviously where it fits. To earn points, you lay a miniature person, known as a Meeple on the city or road, and once the structure is complete, you earn the points. You can lay as many Meeples on a structure as you like, and so can your opponent. The player with the most Meeple on a structure wins the points once it is completed. It is a game of both strategy and of luck. 

Pandemic 

No games blog worth its salt would miss Pandemic while we are living through a Pandemic. This is a strategy game where you work together to cure diseases that are ravaging every corner of the globe. There are epidemic cards that supercharge the infection rate and make the pandemic worse. You are fighting against time and the board to win. It is a great game for thinking out loud and working together. 

Card Games 

Every father should have a set of cards at home. There are so many different games you can play with them. There are memory games where you play the cards face down and pick two trying to find pairs. Slapjack where the clue is in the name, you deal until there is a Jack and you all try to slap it, the winner picks up the cards. You also have the more complicated games such as Poker and Rummy. You could even teach the kids a lesson by using marked cards to show your kids how card sharks and magicians trick people. 

What are some of the favorite games your family plays together?

Purchasing items through this blog's affiliate links provides our website with a small commission at no additional cost to your bill. Your support of ageekdaddy.com by utilizing these links is very much appreciated. All revenue generated is reinvested back into this dad blog to provide our audience with content to be geeked about. 

ONE PRIDE VACCINATION CLINIC

Lions in the wild live within family groups called prides. And in the urban jungle fans of Detroit's NFL team consider themselves part of a pride when it comes to cheering on the Lions. So in the midst of this terrible pandemic knowing that we are all one pride in this public health crisis together, the Lions hosted a COVID-19 vaccination clinic at their downtown Detroit stadium to help beat this virus.

We were able to get appointments for my son and daughter on the first day my twelve year old twins were able eligible to get vaccinated. The whole family drove over to Ford Field so that the kids could join my wife and me in getting protected from this terrible coronavirus. Once arriving at the stadium we were in and out within 30 minutes. It was a quick, hassle free experience.

Why did we get our middle school aged kids vaccinated against COVID? Because I respect the doctors at St. Jude Children's Hospital. They put out an announcement as soon as the vaccine was approved for 12 to 15 year olds encouraging parents to have their kids get the shots. St. Jude Children's Hospital has been saving the lives of sick youth for decades and its doctors have earned my trust.

Doctor Miguela Caniza MD, Director of the St. Jude Global Infectious Diseases Program at St. Jude Children’s Hospital has been outspoken about vaccines for this novel coronavirus being safe and effective. She has emphasized three key points about why it is important to get kids vaccinated against COVID-19:

1. Children and teenagers can also become infected and some of them with serious disease. Young patients aren't immune to serious complications resulting from a COVID infection just because in general their sickness from virus infections seems to be less severe than older people.

2. Children and teenagers are highly mobile attending schools, sports, and intersecting more often with various age groups including with their caretakers and older family members. Even if they don't get very sick from the virus they can spread it to others who may not be as lucky if infected.

3. Because of the high percent of children and teenagers being asymptomatic or with minimal symptoms, most likely they will be effectively spreading during a very contagious period, and even more so, if they don’t follow the standard precautions (distancing, using masks and practicing hand hygiene).

We're doing our part to safeguard our own family's health as well as being sensitive to helping stop the spread of the virus as a benefit to our whole community. No one wants to get a shot, but I was really proud about how my kids rolled up their sleeves and did what needed to be done. No fuss and now a lot less stress about COVID for them.

MUSIC VIDEO ENCOURAGES CHILDREN TO MASK ON

At the request of pediatricians, award-winning songwriter and educational researcher Erica Rabner wrote the upbeat song Mask On encouraging children to wear mask to protect themselves and others during the pandemic. Schools around the country now play the song as students arrive in the morning to encourage children to mask on during the day. Mask On is a cheery, catchy anthem for addressing an important COVID related issue through children's music. Check out this music video that is meant to spread the message to kids why it is important for them to wear a mask when around others. 

Mask On is one of eight songs in Rabner's upcoming THE COVID ALBUM. This children's music album is full of songs to help kids (and their grownups) survive and thrive during the continuing pandemic. The Covid Album features kid-friendly safety and health-oriented PSAs as well as songs that support children’s emotional well being. These original songs are interspersed with “Real Talk” vignettes with actual kids talking about their experiences in these challenging pandemic times.

If this album piques your interest, CLICK HERE for more info.

AIRPOP MASKS

The release of a vaccine I've notice has created a confidence that both judges and my clients are becoming more demanding of a return to the courtroom for in-person appearance for this attorney's criminal defense caseload. Yet at a same time more infectious variants of COVID-19 are immerging here in Michigan and in just last two weeks I've had cases adjourned because of coronavirus outbreaks have shuttered courthouses for staff quarantines. Being told that I may not be able to get a COVID vaccine shot until this summer yet being ordered to participate in close contact with a high risk population of people for work it was time to up my mask protection.

I've started wearing an AirpOp multi-layer mask for added protection for situations when indoor, close contact with other people can't be avoided. AirpOp masks 99.3% particle filtration and 99.9% bacterial filtration providing me with some peace of mind when out and about for work. The outer hard shell of this AirpOp protects the inner micro-fiber filter from abrasion, temperature fluctuations and water plus is designed to promote airflow for balanced circulation making the mask more comfortable and functional to wear. The replaceable inner filter uses electrostatically charged, double TorayMicron nano-fiber core layers to block particulates like those that spread the COVID virus.

Here is why I am putting my trust into my AirpOp mask:

360° SOFT TOUCH SEAL | The inner filter has a patented medical-grade double membrane that is hygienic, thin, flexible & skin soft for continuous comfort. It creates an airtight seal around your mouth and nose so that airflow has to go through the filter and can't slip around it yet doesn't make the mask uncomfortable to wear. 

FLEX-FRAME CHASSIS | The flexible outer frame keeps the filter open in correct shape when snapped into the shell and reinforces the filter's structural integrity. While it works well the filters don't snap in as firmly as you'd expect so be careful to make sure your two pieces are as snug as they should be instead of just taking the connection for granted. That has been my only frustration with this mask design.

AERODOME DESIGN | The outer shell design of this two piece mask creates a canopy of clean air and balanced air circulation. I've felt a lot less constricted breathing when wearing this AirpOp compared to other masks.

40 HOUR WEAR TIME | The replaceable filters are designed for cumulative use of one week or no more than 40 hours. You can wear the mask for a work week before having to replace it. The mask originally comes with four filters so you are good for a month before needing refills. You can pop a filter in on a Monday morning and be good until the next week comes around.

If you are looking for some extra protection to get through the winter weather during this pandemic, check out masks from AirpOp. I've appreciated the protection and feel of my AirpOp mask when having to be in some uncomfortable situations. So AirpOp absolutely gets a Geek Daddy nod of approval!

For more information about getting one of these protective masks for yourself, go to airpophealth.com

SALIVA COVID TESTS

Need to get tested for Covid-19 and would prefer not to have a swab jammed up your nasal cavity? A reliable saliva-based test is now available for Metro Detroit residents. This COVID saliva test is available at the Birmingham Royal Oak Medical Group located adjacent to the Meijer in the City of Royal Oak. There is no charge for the test as it is covered under the Cares Act for those with or without insurance. However, an office visit is needed to order the test.

“We are offering this brand new COVID test by appointment only and same day appointments are available,” says Dr. Mumtaz George. “We’re asking people who have even the slightest doubt to protect themselves and those around them by calling our office to schedule this new non-intrusive COVID test. Due to high demand, we’re expecting a large amount of calls. If we do not answer the phone right away, please leave a message and our scheduler will return the call promptly.”

The test is simple to do and alleviates the discomfort of the nasal swab test. All one needs to do is make an appointment and provide a saliva sample, which can be done in the comfort of one’s own vehicle in the clinic’s parking lot. The new saliva test is over 99% accurate and the results can be found on the online portal in 24 to 48 hours. For more information call 248/288-9500 or visit birminghamroyaloakmedical.com. 

Clinic hours are Monday-Friday 9 am to 5 pm, Saturday 10 am to 3 pm, and Sunday Noon to 3 pm. This is just down the street from my house so if I need a Covid test this is how I'll get it done for sure. Wasn't looking forward to possibly having one of those swab sticks jammed up my nose. This seems like a way more convenient and comfortable way to get it done.

COVID NANO FIBER MASKS

With winter temperatures dropping and COVID-19 cases rising here in Michigan it would be nice to be able to handle all my client's legal representation via utilizing video conferencing technology from my office. Unfortunately, that isn't always the case! A combination of judges requiring in-court appearances and clients demanding them had me masking up on a snowy Michigan day to do some criminal defense work at a local courthouse. Protecting the Constitution and ensuring peoples' legal rights is an essential service that doesn't go away during a public health emergency.

Working with a number of people who are members of high-risk populations for exposure to COVID, I want to don a mask that I can depend on to be safe and efficient to wear when out and about for the job. Places I may find myself visiting as part of my law practice include courts, police stations, jails, and hospitals among other places. When out and about I've been wearing an AirQUEEN Nano Fiber Mask.

These one time only wear masks are approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) for use in surgery and other general medical settings and have been determined to be a N95 substantial equivalent product. AirQUEEN Nano Fiber Masks through independent testing have shown to effectively filter 95% of particulate aerosolis. This means that these masks provide a high level of protection from germs and bacteria that may be transmitted through the air. With COVID-19 being a respiratory disease I appreciate this certified level of protection when having to be in settings where I can't control the environment around me.

While made from paper-like material, the nanoscale fibers used in manufacturing AirQUEEN mask make them superior to cloth masks and elevate their level of protection to what is classified as a high grade medical mask. Manufactured by Korean company, TOPTEC Co. Ltd, these masks are being produced and marketed for both health care workers and the general public. So you won't be taking away a mask from essential workers as the company has told me there is enough stock available to supply first responders, hospital staffs, and any other consumer who would like to purchase them. Plus they have an assembly line dedicated to keeping these masks available in addition to their current inventory.

At 1 billionth of a meter thick, the Nano material in AirQUEEN masks is sterically arranged in a fishnet matrix for optimal filtration, durability and breathability for both safety and comfort. Benefits of this nano fiber material include (1) no-fog breathing, (2) a proven pathogen barrier, (3) a secure fit with a paper-light comfort. I've found wearing AirQUEEN masks more comfortable than cloth ones and have provided me with a better sense of peace of mind when having one on.

Each mask is individually wrapped for sterility. AirQueen nano fiber masks are available in 2-count ($7.50), 5-count ($15) and 10-count ($19.50) packages. All orders delivered within the continental United States are eligible for FREE shipping included with the purchase price and all orders placed before 3pm ET are shipped out the same day from a California warehouse.

As my own kids who are currently virtual learning from home are getting ready for a resumption of going back to their school building for classes in the new year, we have gotten some of the children variety of these nano fiber masks that are available. Not only do my wife and I like them having these because of the higher level of filtering protection that they provide over cloth masks, but also because my son doesn't have to worry about his glasses fogging up while wearing an AirBON Children's Nano Mask.

For more information about the these adult and children's nano fiber masks go to airqueen.com. They've earned a Geek Daddy nod of approval!

HOW TO PROVIDE LOVE JOY AND CONNECTION DURING A PANDEMIC HOLIDAY SEASON

For many people, life as they knew it has been put on hold due to the restrictions we all must adhere to with COVID-19. The days of waiting patiently for life to return to “normal” have passed. In fact, there has been enough time that has passed since the virus hit in early 2020, that we can confidently say, we have developed a new normal. 

At first, this new normal was odd. Anything new is going to be strange to our human brain. We like consistency, predictability, and familiarity. It is what helps us to feel safe and secure, the most basic of our human needs. We are now about to embark on another adventure in experiencing something new --The Holidays. 

This is a time of year that we typically would travel, visit family, go to parties at friends’ homes and restaurants, as well as within our offices. We typically deliver presents to share holiday cheer with others. Perhaps your family spends time in service for organizations or with individuals who need extra help and extra support during this time. While these traditions were part of the bedrock of the holidays, they may not be available to us this year. Although this season will look quite different than years past, we may be able to find some hidden treasures in our new “holiday normal.” 

Here are a few suggestions to help you get through this new “holiday normal” that are based on the science of how our human brain is wired with a sprinkling of strategies that will improve your relationships and boost your resilience. So, in other words, these may be things you choose to add to your life, regardless of whether or not we are in the middle of a pandemic. 

1.  Set the Tone: You set the tone of what this holiday will feel like for your children. They certainly will get messages from your community, their peer group, and the news, however, how you feel and talk about the holiday in your home will have the greatest influence on how they feel. Start by asking yourself, am I already setting myself and my children up for being disappointed? Boost your awareness by noticing how you are talking about the holidays with others, especially when your children are present. When you listen to the things that you say, do you feel uplifted or upset? When your children talk about the holidays do you feel your own body get tense or weak? Although you think your children can not sense this inner state, they can, and it greatly affects how they will feel. You can also use a mindfulness platform like Ninja Focus that can be a great companion for your children to check in on ‘how they are feeling’ and listen to guided tracks from wellness experts.
2. Make a List of Things You Do Not Have to Do: Rather than focus on what has been lost by listing all of the things that you cannot do this holiday season make a list of all of the things that you DO NOT HAVE TO DO because of the pandemic. Having worked with families for over 2 decades, I have found that many of them become overly burdened this time of year because of all of the obligatory things that they must do either personally or professionally. Start this list by titling your paper, “All of the things I do not have to do, and I never enjoyed doing anyway.” After you create that list, how does it feel when you read it? 
3. Focus on What Truly Matters: Without all of those obligations, you now have a lot more time to focus your energy on what truly has meaning to you and your family. Time for another list. What are some things that you wished you could have had more time to enjoy if you were not running all over the place during the holidays? How many times have you purchased gifts for your children, but then not have time to actually play with them? Focus on those things. 
4. Make New Traditions: It is a great opportunity to make some new traditions and get your children involved in it. Whether you are celebrating a specific holiday or simply taking some time off of work because school is closed, now is the time to collectively decide what family or individual things your children would like to explore during this time and perhaps share with you. Plan ahead, and yes, create another list by asking your children about things they are really interested in doing or learning and find creative ways to explore these things together. 
5. Spend Quality Time and Bond As a Family: Last but not least, remember that this is the perfect “storm” for you to actually BE together, as a family to talk and connect. Ask any child psychologist and they will tell you that the best way to raise children to be self-confident, respectful, happy, and secure, is to give them THIS most important present -- YOUR PRESENCE. Simply being side by side, listening to each other without being rushed, speaking honestly about their dreams, fears, desires, challenges, and joys. This is what cultivates a happy home and healthy relationships. 

Remember the most important thing is to spend a few moments each day enjoying the company of your children this holiday season. It can bring your family closer and boost your mood. If you think it helps, include yoga and mindfulness exercises into your daily routine. Ninja Focus is a great resource with short and easy to follow mindfulness exercises and meditations that you can practice as a family with your children. Happy holidays! 

 Allison Morgan is the founder of Zensational Kids, a pediatric occupational therapist, renowned author, public speaker, trainer, and an advisory board member of Ninja Focus.

MYRTLE BEACH VACATION DISCOUNTS

One of the best family vacations we've gone on was our stay at the Crown Reef Resort last year in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Like many families, we've stayed close to home this year canceling our vacation plans due to the pandemic. Now though is the time to begin making travel plans for 2021 now that a vaccine appears to be on the way and things begin to improve. With that in mind, Crown Reef Resort and other Vacation Myrtle Beach properties are offering some great discounts only available during the Thanksgiving Day Weekend for Spring through Fall vacations in 2021.

Vacation Myrtle Beach, one of the largest and premier providers of family vacation accommodations in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina is offering deeply discounted 2021 rates at their 14 oceanfront Vacation Myrtle Beach resorts. Save up to 50% on accommodation packages that provide flexible pandemic-related cancellation options and enhances safety measures. Don't wait around to check out these deals because they'll be gone on December 1, 2020.

CLICK HERE for more information

USAOPOLY GIVEAWAY

With all the time we've been spending on computers lately working remotely and virtually learning due to the pandemic, we've been enjoying unplugging for some quality family time with tabletop games. I wanted to share with you that my friends at usaopoly are hosting a holiday giveaway to help people enjoy some game nights like the ones my family has been having. There is no entry fee or purchase obligation to participate in this giveaway you just need to be willing to provide your name and some contact information for chance to win one of ten prizes.

The Op's Home for the Holidays Giveaway includes 1 Grand Prize winner who will receive Telestrations 8 Player, Telestrations: Upside Down, Blank Slate, and Hues and Cues. 5 runner-up prizes will be awarded where winners can choose one of those four games as their prize. Plus 4 additional winners will each receive a $25 gift card for the usaopoly.com online store.

CLICK HERE to enter the giveaway. Entries must be received by December 10, 2020. Participants are subject to the promotion's official rules.

GRIP GUARD TOUCH PROTECTOR

With cases of COVID on the rise it can be a bit disconcerting to be out and about. You just don't know who may be spreading these germs on surfaces passing on the contagent to others. I admit to getting a bit nervous when tapping the buttons at an ATM or gas pump. If you share similar concerns I have a doozy of a product to share with you that I've been using leaving the house to do errands during the pandemic.

GRIP GUARD TOUCH PROTECTOR! With the Grip Guard Touch Protector from Doozi Products you can use the device's clam shell shaped silicone barrier with self adjusting finger holders to open doors or pick up items that you don't want your bare hands to be exposed to. An attached retractable spring-loaded cord makes it very portable and easy to use by stashing the Grip Guard in a pocket or attaching it to your belt. I like to pull my Grip Guard out when going through some heavy-traffic entry ways that don't have automatically opening doors such as my local post office and restaurants. I admit to also using it on the doors, knobs and levers when having to use public restrooms a few times just to be extra safe. 

The feature I use the most often though is the retractable stylus that is incorporated into the Grip Guard's design. Touching buttons, keypads and touch screens that other people have been using can be nerve-racking during these times. I've used the Grip Guard's stylus for summoning an elevator, doing banking transactions, fueling up my car, and completing retail transactions instead of rubbing my fingers against surfaces that others are regularly handling. Very handy!

Check out the Grip Guard Touch Protector for yourself. Head over to thegripguard.com for more information or to purchase one online. When you can't control the environment around you, the Grip Guard is a nice way to provide extra peace of mind about protecting yourself from germs and bacteria that can make you sick.

FEVER GUARD

With a long incubation period and many people being asymptomatic, identifying when someone has a fever is an important line of defense for attempting to minimize the spread of Covid-19 during this pandemic. That is why getting your temperature checked is a requirement for entry into a variety of public places.  I have to go into courthouses regularly for work and they've added checking people for fevers as part of the security screening process before going through metal detectors. 

Unless you are burning up most people aren't self-aware they are getting a fever. I for sure don't know I'm getting one until I begin feeling sick. Yet our temperatures begin to elevate gradually well before other symptoms of illness begin manifesting. 

A new product from Solos Health Analytics called FeverGuard provides a simple way to keep track of your body temperature and warn you if a fever is developing. Simply strap a small sensor to your upper arm that transmits data to an encrypted, HIPAA-compliant database that will determine your unique base body temperature and its normal variations then provide continuous monitoring for unusual activity. An app on your phone will alert you if a fever begins to develop. 

There is also an opt-in contact tracing feature that can provide a warning to designated family, friends, co-workers and other acquaintances. Want notice of a sudden spike sent directly to your doctor? Have an elderly parent needing monitoring? FeverGuard, for people who opt in, will send an alert once a user's body temperature deviates from it normal temperature routine. A great way for people to make determinations about quarantining and getting medical care.

Who wants to keep taking their temperature throughout the day with manual thermometers? And often times you may get false readings from those thermometers. Because FeverGuard is constantly monitoring you it learns what your normal temperature is and can determine when something is actually out of wack with you not having to do anything other than wearing it.

I tried out the FeverGuard for myself and it didn't even feel like something was strapped to my arm. The sensor was a very comfortable fit and my shirt sleeve covered it up as a wore the device around.  Just like you get used to wearing watch and don't really feel it on your wrist having this sensor on your arm is no big deal. And it is much lighter than a watch! 

The device activates when its sensor registers your body heat. A green light begins to illuminate the face of the sensor to let you know it is working. Then just set up an account with Solo Health Analytics and sync your device to their app that can be downloaded to your phone.

The app shows that my core temperature is consistent with the thermometer checks I've been getting at a variety of places. The other day though I had an office appointment that had to be cancelled because their thermometer showed me as having a fever. I began to get nervous! 

But FeverGuard showed my temperature to be the same as normal throughout the whole day as well as into the next morning. That afternoon I was checked at another appointment and their thermometer showed me at my normal level. That reading which had me worried was obviously a faulty thermometer. And while manual thermometers, especially touchless ones, can have false positives they can also provide erroneous negative readings too.  FeverGuard obviously provides a more analytical approach to monitoring biomarkers.

Because FeverGuard monitors temperature continuously as well as uses patent-pending machine learning technology and predictive analytics, it enables individuals and other authorized entities, such as employers, caregivers and healthcare professionals, to take immediate action to contain the spread of infectious viruses like COVID-19. If you want to be proactive in protecting yourself and others around you, FeverGuard is a great tool for staying on guard against the coronavirus so that you are alerted to potentially becoming sick before feeling under the weather.

From my personal experience utilizing it, FeverGuard gets a Geek Daddy nod of approval for providing a useful tool for your healthcare utility belt. This dad blogger believes it is a nice use of technology to be able to relatively effortlessly keep track of an important aspect of your healthcare during this pandemic. For more information visit feverguard.com

PLAGUE SLAYER HAND SANITIZER

Have to say this hand sanitizer from the folks at Ballsy caught my attention. PLAGUE SLAYER promises to kill 99.9% of germs and has a five star rating with almost 150 reviews at ballwash.com. From the makers of male sanitary and cleaning products, Ballsy, this manufacturer knows how to take care of the sensitive needs of its client base. 

Plague Slayer is Made in the USA with an FDA approved formula. It utilizes pharmaceutical grade ethyl alcohol to kill germs and includes aloe to sooth skin irritation. Yet it is marketed to guys so Plague Slayer is fragrance free! Not to completely profit off a pandemic, Ballsy is donating 25% of profits from Plague Slayer to support health care workers fighting the pandemic.

Check out Plague Slayer for yourself. It is more than just impressive looking artwork on its label. Made in the USA without any dangerous unapproved chemicals you may find in foreign sourced products this hand sanitizer gets the job done.

SIX TIPS FOR COPING WITH COVID AT THE HOLIDAYS

As much as the staff at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital provide amazing treatments helping sick kids they also have to provide counsel to those families they aren't able to get positive outcomes for. Their team of psychologists are experts at helping people address uncertainty, stress and grief. With COVID cases rising as the holiday season approaches, a normally cheerful, social time could this year be isolating and depressing this year due to the pandemic. And if people aren't careful they and their loved ones could be at risk for getting sick with the coronavirus.

So I wanted to pass along some tips from St. Jude Psychology Clinical Director Niki Jurbergs, PhD, along with her colleague Megan Wilkins, PhD, on coping with Covid at the holidays:

1. Perform a mental health check - It is critically important, especially given mounting “pandemic fatigue,” that we attend to our own mental health. We must first take stock of our own mental health and assure we are not trying to “pour from an empty cup.” It is imperative that parents take time for care of themselves, including spending time outside, seeking social support and engaging in relaxing activities. Give yourself grace to feel disappointment and upset about this highly anxious and uncertain time. 
2. Feel empowered to do what feels comfortable – In our work with families of children with cancer, we stress the importance of facing the upcoming holidays feeling empowered to do what feels most comfortable given the risks and restrictions of their child’s diagnosis. This is a time for all of us to take this lesson to heart and work to adjust our expectations and prepare for things to be different this year, and in many cases, difficult as well. It can help to talk about these losses, sharing what we are missing most this holiday season. 
3. Take time to consider what is meaningful to you around the holidays – Take time to consider what is meaningful to you around the holidays. Is it the special recipe for a dish your grandmother used to make? Is it playing games with family members? Watching a game with friends? What parts of these meaningful pieces of the holidays can still happen in a way you feel comfortable with? Rather than looking forward to our typical parties and family meals, we might choose to focus on the gift of health we give when we make the sacrifice of honoring our families’ and loved ones’ health and safety by staying home. 
4.  Make the holidays special from afar - Planning surprises such as cards or gifts delivered in the mail lets your loved ones know you’re with them in spirit, if not in body. Recognizing that many of us are tired of looking at screens, virtual games and activities such as scavenger hunts or singing favorite holiday songs may be more engaging than simply video chatting. Families who remain distanced this season may enjoy developing new traditions, such as trying new recipes or playing new games with those they share a household with that might be incorporated into future holidays when they can safely be together again. Families may choose to reflect on what they are thankful for by coming together to make donations to charities and causes that are meaningful to them. 
5.  Protect your elderly loved ones from loneliness and isolation - In many cases, seniors experience a heightened sense of loss related to pandemic restrictions. These elderly individuals express the feeling that their time is short, and that time is being stolen from them. Some express a willingness to accept the risk of potential virus infection to spend time with family because they are more fearful of dying of old age than they are of dying of COVID-19. Reaching out to those at highest risk for loneliness is more important than ever. Phone calls, video chats, cards, drive-by parades and even socially distanced outdoor visits can help them feel connected and reassure them that you are thinking of them. 
6. For the 250,000 Americans grieving the loss of a loved one from COVID-19, make the decision about the holidays that feels right for you – Celebrating holidays for the first time without a loved one is unspeakably difficult. For these families, not only has this pandemic taken the life of a loved one, the threat remains. That is, not only are they grieving, they are continuing to face the virus and its ongoing impact on a daily basis. These families should not feel obligated to engage in holiday traditions as they have in the past. In fact, it might feel better for some to not celebrate at all this year. Conversely, some families may choose to find special ways to honor and include the memory of their lost loved one. As with all family decisions, this one is highly personal.

A HAUNTING IN HOLLYGROVE

Normally during the summer and fall months the fairgrounds in rural Oakland County, Michigan known as Hollygrove which is home to the Michigan Renaissance Festival are filled with the sounds of merriment and music. It has been quiet this year though as the festivities were cancelled due to the pandemic. That was until recently when rumors started circling among local townsfolk of eerie sights and sounds emerging from Hollygrove after dark as Halloween approached. Whoa!

My inner Ghostbuster couldn't resist going to see if there were any spooky spirits haunting Hollygrove. If my family couldn't enjoy cheering on the jousters and laughing at the jesters at this year's Michigan Renaissance Festival, maybe we could have ourselves some Halloween fun in the Village of Hollygrove. So off we went looking for a terror-ific time!

From now through Halloween, adventure seekers can make their way through a 3/4 mile maze of illuminations and decorations trekking through the twists and turns of the Michigan Renaissance Festival grounds. Are you brave enough to walk these paths after dark when monsters may be lurking in the buildings and forest around you? If so a limited number of guided tour time slots are available on October 17-18, 22-25, and 29-31.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $17.95 for children (5-12 years old). Social distancing guidelines will be recommend and masks required during this primarily outdoor event. Time slots will be restricted to 40 people maximum. So make reservations and purchase tickets online at halloweeninholly.com in advance to make sure you get a chance to experience A Haunting in Hollygrove.

Thanks to the Michigan Renaissance Festival for inviting this dad blogger and his family out as their guests and letting us be some of the first people to experience this Halloween event. With us staying close to home for most of this year we needed to get out for an adventure. We had a spook-tacular good time!

MICHIGAN RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL ON PARADE

No jest! We had ourselves a festive time last summer at the Michigan Renaissance Festival. Comedy skits, musical performances, and knightly jousts provide for a carefree day living like royalty. And with the event's reliance on porta potties it really is like stepping back into medieval times.

 

Unfortunately with the pandemic this annual Metro Detroit event was cancelled ... or was it? Based upon popular demand a special social distancing format was put in place. Because with a diehard fanbase you can't keep a good Renaissance Festival down!

For the last few weeks, the Village of Hollygrove has been hosting a drive through festival. A limited number of cars each weekend can traverse the Renaissance Festival grounds partaking in food stations, perusing artistic vendors and enjoying the entertainment that has made this an iconic Michigan event. If you missed out on this, there is still a chance to participate. There is one more weekend to join in the fun!

For more information or to purchase tickets go to michiganrenfest.com. Don't miss out on the huzzah and cheers!

DIVE BACK INTO GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL

For the last few years our normal family routine has been spending Sunday afternoons at Goldfish Swim School as my kids have gone through lessons and participating in the swim team there. In mid-March as the coronavirus began spreading into Michigan little did we know that visit to Goldfish Swim School may have been our final chance to dive into their pool. As things began to get crazy with the pandemic impacting the State that Sunday in March was one of our last moments of normalcy as the next week my son and daughter's school shutdown while my wife and I's work places went into lockdown. As we all know now life has changed quite a bit over the last five months.

Originally, it was thought the virus would burn out and life would resume back to normal in a few weeks. Yet it is August and my wife and I are still working from home. It looks like the kids' school year will start off with online learning from home. And that Goldfish Swim School we enjoyed spending our Sundays at has been shuttered since our last visit in March. We were one of the last families in the pool before the pandemic closed the place down.

View this post on Instagram

Light turn out for swimming practice tonight but the pool is open at @goldfishswimschool --> chlorine in the water kills virus germs and outside their pool the facility is taking extra efforts to sanitize the rest of the place. #GoldfishPartner *********************************************** #goldfishswimschool #goldfish #swimschool #swimforce #coronavirus #corona #virus #pandemic #dadlife #swimdad #swimclass #swimpractice #competitiveswimming #swimlessons #swimmingclass #swimminglessons #swimming #pooltime #pool

A post shared by @ geekdad248 on Mar 15, 2020 at 2:38pm PDT

Fortunately for families some sense of normalcy may be returning as our local Goldfish Swim School just opened again. Kids can dive back into the water and resume swimming lessons starting today! The Swim Force has been cancelled so we may not be back but my kids have had a golden experience at this swimming school that we will always appreciate. Now during these tough times it is nice to know that Goldfish Swim School can brighten the days with swimming lessons for kids who have been sticking close to home for a very long time and are probably very stir crazy to get out and about.

During our time at Goldfish Swim School, the staff not only focused on building the kids swimming skills but also emphasized water safety. So you know Goldfish Swim School is going to be taking the safety of their re-opening during this coronavirus pandemic very seriously! Here are some of the ways that they'll be letting children dive back into the pool being conscientious of the ongoing public health crisis:

Screening Swimmers & Caregivers

• No one will be allowed in the building before being pre-screened for exposure to the virus and having their temperature checked.
• Only one caregiver per family allowed in with swimmers. No non-sibling swimmers allowed inside.
• The parent will have a designated socially distanced seat in the observation gallery corresponding to the lane their child will be swimming in.
• Wearing masks by everyone is required. Children can remove masks when in the water.

Building Adjustments

• Screening barriers have been added alongside the edge of the pool to separate children in their lanes when out of the water.
• Showers and some changing rooms will be unavailable. Please come having your child wearing their swimsuit. Please don't linger and leave immediately after classes.
• Shared amenities such as hair dryers have been removed.
• Decals promoting social distancing and circulation of traffic flow through the building have been added.
• The facility will be a cashless operation with all purchases being charged to your account.
• Will not have googles on the pool deck to borrow.
• Specially designated cleaning staff will be continuously sanitizing the facility throughout the day.

Swim Class Sizes

• Group lesson ratios will be 3:1 instead of the usual 4:1.
• Mini 3 lesson ratios will be 2:1 instead of the usual 3:1.
• Mini 1 and 2 lesson ratios will be 4:1 instead of the usual 6:1.
• Swim Force team training sessions and competitions are cancelled.
• No Family Swim or Birthday Parties at this time.

Staff Precautions

• All staff will be temperature checked and will complete a self-assessment upon arrival. Anyone experiencing a fever or any symptoms will be sent home. 
• All dry side staff members will be wearing masks and all wet side staff will be wearing face shields. 
• Staff will go through a number of trainings to help keep themselves and swimmers as safe as possible.

Dive back in! The pool is back open! Go to goldfishswimschool.com for more information.

MY EARTH SONGS

It has been a tough year! And if you think it has been tough on the average American family having to isolate at home and keep kids away from school and day care just think how rough things have been for children living in impoverishment here and around the world. So in June a number of children's musical artists from around the globe participated in an online concert called My Earth Songs Virtual Live Concert to raise funds for UNICEF COVID-19 relief for children. Now to do more good, the soundtrack from that concert is being released as an album with all proceeds going to UNICEF!

My Earth Songs will be available to purchase via all major online outlets beginning August 28, 2020. Great for all ages but especially appropriate for ages 5-11. My Earth Songs will retail as a $9.99 digital download with a runtime of approximately of 45 minutes.

Artists represented on My Earth Songs include six Grammy winners from around the world: United Nations Global Humanitarian Artist Ricky Kej from India, legendary Senegalese singer Baaba Maal (voice of the Wakandan soundtrack for the Black Panther movie), U.S. family musicians Lucy Kalantari and Jon Samson, South African flutist Wouter Kellerman, and two-time Grammy winner Mariachi Divas de Cindy Shea. Also featured are the Earth Band’s primary artist/frontman, Grammy-nominated American singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Lonnie Park; Grammy-nominated Canadian flutist Ron Korb; and Global Music Award winning Indian bassist and composer Dominic D'Cruz.



My Earth Songs sets the pace with its sparkling, energetic opening track, “Shine Your Light,” which features the Mzansi Youth Choir, an ensemble that was established to provide opportunities for underprivileged South African children, particularly in Soweto. Other highlights include the multicultural “Born from the Land,” with lead singer Lonnie Park sharing the spotlight with famed Senegalese vocalist Baaba Maal, who presents soaring reflections in his native Fula language. “She Can Do,” a song that celebrates breaking down gender-based stereotypes, features Lucy Kalantari in a vocal performance loaded with verve. “In the Waterworld” showcases the jewel-like Mexican mariachi perfection of Mariachi Divas de Cindy Shea. With his elegant phrasing, Jon Samson really illustrates the poetry within the relaxed ballad “Breathe Life,” which is beautifully complimented by Ron Korb’s Bansuri flute. “Bicycle Day” celebrates the world’s most efficient non-polluting mode of transportation through the artistry of famed flutist Wouter Kellerman and the clarity and storytelling confidence of Lonnie Park’s vocals.

Parents will appreciate My Earth Songs delivers complex topics in bite-sized chunks packed with meaning that children can effortlessly assimilate. Every one of these fun, positive, and super singalong-able songs has a catchy tune with simple, memorable lyrics. Focusing on what’s needed to ensure a clean, green world for generations to come, each track was inspired by one of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.



Songs that inspire and help a good cause are sure to brighten a lot of days for children around the globe. That is why this My Earth Songs gets a Geek Daddy nod of approval and this dad blogger wanted to give you all a heads up about its release. My Earth Songs is kindie rock at its best educating and entertaining children through music while raising awareness and funding for a worthy cause in UNICEF COVID-19 relief for children.



To donate directly to UNICEF's Coronavirus Children's Crisis Appeal, please visit this page.

JOIN IN CAMP WARNER BROS

Sponsored by Warner Bros Home Entertainment

We've been having a super time this summer participating in Camp Warner Bros. activities during our pandemic staycation. This week's activities involve one of my kids favorite superhero teams THE TEEN TITANS so we wanted to let you all join us in the fun. So I'm sharing a stay at home activity that Teen Titans fans are sure to like plus hosting a giveaway for a digital code for the action-packed animated mash-up movie - Teen Titans Go! Vs. Teen Titans.

Have yourself a family movie night enjoying Teen Titans Go! Vs. Teen Titans. In Teen Titans Go! Vs. Teen Titans, the comedic modern-day quintet takes on their 2003 Cartoon Network counterparts when villains from each of their worlds join forces to pit the two Titan teams against each other. They’ll need to set aside their differences and work together to combat Trigon, Hexagon, Santa Claus (that’s right, Santa!) and time itself in order to save the universe.



Teen Titans Go! Vs. Teen Titans is available on Blu-ray and DVD from Best Buy. If you purchase this animated movie via ageekdaddy.com affiliate link this dad blogger will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support is appreciated!



Teen Titans Go! Vs. Teen Titans is also available on Digital. Complete the Rafflecopter entries below before 11:59 pm on August 9, 2020 for a chance to win. Must be a United States resident over 18 years old to be eligible for this giveaway. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Before watching the movie enjoy this Camp Warner Bros activity. It’s time to get crafty with these adorable Teen Titans Go! Vs. Teen Titans Character Banks - while learning a little bit about finances and household responsibility!




Gain control of your own Titans Tower – and give the kids in your life a lesson of earning, motivation, and accountability by offering allowance for their Summer Chores! Let them save their money in their very own Character Banks featuring the images of the Teen Titans.

While chores can be a bore – you can figure out small incentives to help your at home summer campers learn about the value of the dollar, and working hard for something they really want. You can teach budgeting and saving to help set them up for their future. If they feel like being real Super Heroes – they can even do chores for charity – and have them donate to a cause that can save someone else’s Universe!

Hope you will join us in participating in Camp Warner Bros by crafting a character bank and having a family movie night watching Teen Titans Go! Vs Teen Titans. Stay tuned for more updates from ageekdaddy.com on how to have a safe, super summer staycation. Well get through this pandemic together!

OUR GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL EXPERIENCE

For the last few years swimming at Goldfish Swim School has been part of my family's regular weekly routine. After struggling to learn to swim through programs offered by our local parks and recreations department, my daughter excelled at Goldfish Swim School. It has been a golden experience!

She has consistently been in the pool at Goldfish Swim School every week for the last four years. Moving up from basic swimming lessons to participating in the Swim Force team my daughter loves swimming at Goldfish Swim School. So with the coronavirus pandemic closing our local Goldfish Swim School and reversing our summer travel plans turning this time into a staycation we decided to invest in putting a pool in our own backyard.

In addition to providing instruction on swimming skills, Goldfish Swim School always put an emphasis on kids learning about water safety too. As a parent that makes it nice to know that in addition to being able to swim, my daughter is also smart about being safe in the water. It provided us with confidence in getting our own pool for the family to enjoy at home.

Having graduated through all the programs at Goldfish Swim School, we didn't want my daughter to just stop swimming. As Dory says in Finding Nemo, "When life gets you down, you know what you gotta do? Just keep swimming." That seems like a good mantra during these tough coronavirus times!

So we've been having her recreate Swim Force practices, competing against her brother in races plus been having lots of fun family time swimming in our new pool. After a few months break from diving into the pool at Goldfish Swim School, jumping back into the water has brought a lot of joy to our family. Swimming is wonderful for adding exercise and entertainment into your day. Also a great way to destress from tension that may be in your life. So true with all the troubles caused by this virus that is impacting us all!

Thank you Goldfish Swim School for making swimming a cherished part of my daughter's life. We are keeping her enthusiasm for swimming alive! Hoping these tough times will pass quickly and kids will soon be back in the pool at Goldfish Swim School. We are putting our Goldfish experience to good use this summer!