DigeeBooks

Featuring more than 40 families, DADS is a journey into Gay Fatherhood in the United States.Dads is a journey into gay fatherhood in the United States. More than 40 families are portrayed by the Belgian photographer Bart Heynen. A very diverse group of dads who have one thing in common; they are gay and they have children. Ever since 2015, when same-sex marriage became legal in across the U.S., we've witnessed a baby boom in the gay community. From New York City to Utah all these fathers are at the very beginning of a new era for gay men. Through adoption or the help of surrogates and egg donors they are able to make their dream come true and start a family of their own.  Beautifully printed and bound in Italy by famed Editoriale Bortolazzi Stei (EBS) to reproduce Heynen's portraits with the utmost quailty, Dads sheds a light on the daily lives of these families. The constant tension between how these families are unique and similar to straight families, makes this book a true page turner. As the babies grow into adults and the fathers grow older throughout the book, we  are reminded that families come in many different sizes, colors and shapes. To say it in the words of Harvey Fierstein: ‘Love, commitment, and family are not heterosexual experiences, not heterosexual words, they are human words and they belong to all people.’ “A stunning portrait of dads with their babies…The looks and gazes on the faces of both the babies and dads is spot on – a mixture, of curiosity and pride.” -Martin Parr

"Dads: A Parenting Guide for Men" by Bart Heynen

In his book "Dads: A Parenting Guide for Men," Bart Heynen offers a comprehensive and relatable guide to help fathers navigate the challenges and rewards of parenting. He delves into various aspects of fatherhood, from building a strong bond with your child to establishing effective discipline strategies. Drawing from his personal experiences and extensive research, Heynen provides practical advice and insights to empower fathers in their parenting roles.

Key Themes Explored in the Book:

1. The Importance of Fatherhood: Heynen emphasizes the vital role fathers play in their children's lives, highlighting the unique contributions they bring to parenting. He discusses the positive impact involved fathers can have on their children's emotional, social, and intellectual development.

2. Building a Strong Father-Child Bond: Heynen offers strategies for fathers to establish a close and nurturing relationship with their children. He emphasizes the significance of spending quality time together, engaging in meaningful conversations, and demonstrating affection. He also provides tips for fathers to be actively involved in their children's daily lives.

3. Effective Discipline Techniques: Heynen explores various discipline approaches that fathers can use to guide their children's behavior positively. He promotes positive reinforcement and setting clear boundaries while discussing the importance of avoiding harsh or punitive measures. He also emphasizes the need for consistency and patience in discipline.

4. Communicating with Children: Heynen highlights the importance of effective communication between fathers and their children. He provides tips for fathers to listen attentively, validate their children's feelings, and communicate their expectations clearly. He also discusses the significance of creating a home environment where children feel comfortable expressing themselves.

5. Fathers' Role in Children's Education: Heynen emphasizes the involvement fathers can have in their children's education. He encourages fathers to be actively involved in homework, reading to their children, and engaging them in educational activities. He also discusses the importance of supporting their children's teachers and schools.

Overall, "Dads: A Parenting Guide for Men" serves as an invaluable resource for fathers seeking guidance and support to raise happy, healthy, and well-adjusted children. By blending personal anecdotes, research-based insights, and practical tips, Bart Heynen empowers fathers to navigate the complexities of parenting and build strong, lasting relationships with their children.