Why do TV shows make fun of dads?

Even Peppa Pig and the Flintstones were named as programmes that damage children's perceptions of fatherhood. 

A ground-breaking survey by parenting website Netmums found 93% of parents agree the portrayal of Dads in the media doesn't reflect what they contribute to families in real life. 

Nearly half - 46 % - said books, adverts and TV shows like The Simpsons - famed for couch potato Dad Homer Simpson - could make children believe that Dads are "useless".

Some 28 % claimed the programmes were a "very subtle form of discrimination" and there would be an outcry if jokes aimed at Dads were aimed at women, ethnic minorities or religious groups.

Just last summer, Homer Simpson topped a Father's Day poll to find the UK's favourite film Dad. He was also named the Best Role Model, Most Embarrasing, and Funniest Dad.

But Netnums founder Siobhan Freegard said: "Good dads have never been more needed by their families. So it seems perverse we are telling men to step up and be involved, while running them down in the media.
"Some people claim 'it's just a joke' - but there's nothing amusing about taking away good role models for young boys."

She added: "Academic studies show children with involved fathers do far better at school, have a much lower chance of getting involved in crime and have better mental health, so we should be celebrating and encouraging what dads do well."Critically there was little difference in the responses given by women to the NetNums survey than those sent in by men. The survey reveals that a quarter of those polled believe rocketing divorce rates are the main issue undermining fatherhood. Click here to read it on line

One in nine men say the number of women choosing to have kids alone through IVF or sperm donation was a pressing concern. Others fear the influence of step parents. Some 88 per cent of Dads insist they are trying to do be a better father than their own one.

After having seen a programme on Revelation TV, an interview with David G. Evans, about dads becoming men after God's own heart, I read his book, Dare to be a man, the truth every man must know and every woman needs to know about him. 

It's a very inspiring reading that I recommend to any age for men and women. 

Easter in Southport

At Easter, Steven booked us in a new CL as the one we used to go had shut. So we arrived at Marshbank farm at about 2 p.m. and were impressed straight away by the site! From a practical point of view, the grass was well cut and dry, the owner welcoming. He insisted that we should park our car outside the grassed area which was fair enough!
I just loved to look at the small family of lambs, ewes and rams. Further on the bank before the marsh, dozens of shell ducks were gathered minding their own business...at time being pretty noisy :)

 

On the Wednesday we met up with auntie Wendy and uncle Peter, cousin June and cousin Franck and had lunch. It was an emotional reunion as we spoke of Dad and remembered the good times when he was around.

These are a few photos I took as we went to the center of Southport. Steven went to visit his old school, Christ Church Higher grade School. It has been partially converted in a sport shop The rest of the week went fast. We also visited Churchtown botanical gardens and were appalled at the state of a few birds looking pretty sad and bored!

 We enjoyed meeting up with our friends  Cuan and Jeff at the Christian bookshop . I found enough books to keep me busy until half-term and I will review them later. On Sunday, we attended a lively service St Simon and St Jude with All Souls Church is situated on Old Park Lane

 How was your Easter break? I went back to work yesterday for 2 inset days and it feels surreal to think that last Friday we were admiring a beautiful sunset over the Banks!
Have a peaceful or exciting week-end! Yours in Christ. N.