The Support Dad’s Need

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Jack Bragg, 7th Communications Squadron, holds a pretend baby while packing a diaper bag during a Dad’s 101 class Aug. 22, 2013, at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas. The purpose of this exercise is to simulate stressors that a dad may face once a newborn baby arrives. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Autumn Velez/Released)

The Support Dad’s Need

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Jack Bragg, 7th Communications Squadron, wraps a pretend baby in a blanket during a Dad’s 101 class Aug. 22, 2013, at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas. Dad’s 101 provides expectant fathers hands-on experience on how to care for a new baby. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Autumn Velez/Released)

The Support Dad's Need

Published Aug. 27, 2013
By Airman Autumn Velez
7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs

DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Support for new fathers is often overshadowed by the attention provided to expectant mothers.

At Team Dyess, and at bases all across the Air Force, there is a class that is being provided for soon to be dads.

Dad's 101 is a class that is offered once every quarter that focuses not only on learning the basics of caring for an infant, but also addresses the challenges and hardships they may face as a parent.

The key element that makes the class successful is that it's a discussion that is guided by dads for dads.

"Men learn best from other fathers, after months and months of hearing it from women; it's nice to hear it from a guy's perspective," said John Miller, a Dad's 101 instructor.

The addition of an infant to any family can be a life altering event. Along with balancing all other aspects of one's life, caring for a baby adds a range of new responsibilities and obligations, which often increase stress.

"There are challenges and changes that come along with being a dad, especially in the military," Miller said. "Dad's need to know there is no perfect dad and challenges are going to come. It is important to know how to handle those situations."

Dad's 101 gives fathers the opportunity to be forewarned and prepared for what is to come.
"Fatherhood has been the greatest challenge of my life, but has also been the best adventure of my life," said Staff Sgt. Neil Ortiz, 317th Maintenance Squadron.

Even though being a father may sound overwhelming, at the end of the day, it's an experience incomparable to anything else, Miller said. Fortunately, expectant fathers in the Air Force can get the encouragement and support they need, thanks to Dad's 101.

For more information contact SueAnne Simmons at (325) 696-5380.