Morning brother,

🚨 WARNING: EMOTIONAL VIDEO AHEAD 🚨

An unreleased song titled “Stay at Home Dad” by songwriters Devin Dawson, Chandler Brown, and Kyle Clark has us sitting in a puddle of our own tears.

Listen at your own risk.

In today’s edition:

• 💸 Smart money moves for new dads

• 🆓 Win FREE Dad Coaching

• ❤️ Creative date ideas for busy parents

• 👷 Job Board

Finances

Smart Money Moves for New Dads

Smart Money Moves for New Dads

New dad life comes with a lot of joy, but it also brings financial challenges. The good news? With some smart planning, you can navigate these changes smoothly and set up a solid financial foundation for your family. Here are key strategies to consider.

1. Kickstart a College Savings Plan

College might seem far off, but starting early can make a huge difference. Look into 529 plans, which offer tax advantages as you save for your child’s education. Even small, regular contributions can grow significantly over time thanks to compound interest.

Why it matters: By starting now, you’re spreading the cost of college over many years, reducing the financial burden later on.

2. Maximize Tax Breaks for Parents

Uncle Sam offers several tax breaks that can help new parents. Make sure you're taking full advantage of these:

• Child Tax Credit: You may be eligible for a tax credit of up to $2,000 per child.

• Dependent Care Credit: If you pay for daycare, you can get a credit for a portion of those expenses.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): These accounts let you use pre-tax dollars for childcare and medical expenses.

What’s next: Consult with a tax professional to ensure you’re leveraging all available credits and deductions.

3. Create or Update Your Budget

Having a baby changes everything, including your budget. Take time to reassess your finances:

• Track Expenses: Understand where your money is going and identify areas to cut back.

• Prioritize Spending: Focus on essential expenses like healthcare, childcare, and savings.

• Emergency Fund: Aim to save three to six months’ worth of expenses for unexpected costs.

Big Picture: A clear budget helps you manage day-to-day finances and prepare for the future.

4. Protect Your Family with Insurance

Life insurance and health insurance are crucial when you have dependents. Here’s what to consider:

• Life Insurance: Ensure you have adequate coverage to support your family if something happens to you.

• Health Insurance: Review your policy to make sure it covers your family’s needs, including pediatric care.

Bottom line: Adequate insurance provides peace of mind and financial security for your loved ones.

5. Plan for Long-Term Goals

Think beyond the immediate future. Consider your long-term financial goals and how to achieve them:

• Retirement Savings: Continue contributing to your retirement accounts.

• Estate Planning: Draft a will and consider setting up a trust to manage your assets.

The takeaway: Balancing short-term needs with long-term planning ensures financial stability and growth.

Last Word

Being a new dad is a big adjustment, but with these smart money moves, you can provide a secure future for your family while enjoying the present. Take it one step at a time, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice to tailor these strategies to your unique situation.

Together with LUMO Coaching

Behind the greatest players is a great coach.

This father’s day, we’re honoring dads in a new way – we’re teaming up with LUMO to give 6 lucky dads the kind of support they need, deserve, and don’t often ask for - coaching.  

LUMO’s deeply experienced coaches are dedicated to helping working parents feel empowered in their lives and careers. 

With decades of experience, their expert approach is trusted by progressive organizations and high-performing private clients alike.

To be entered to win one of six (6), 45 minute private coaching sessions, matched with a coach perfect for you, fill out the entry form linked below.

*Entry to contest closes 11:59pm on June 16th

Relationships

Strengthening Bonds: Creative date night ideas for busy parents.

Parenting is a beautiful journey, but it can also be a whirlwind of activities, responsibilities, and constant demands on your time.

Amidst the chaos, it’s crucial to carve out moments for your relationship.

Regular date nights can help strengthen your bond, reignite the spark, and ensure your partnership remains a cornerstone of your family. Here are some creative date night ideas tailored for busy parents:

1. Home Cinema Night

Transform your living room into a cozy home cinema. Pick a movie that both of you have been wanting to watch, prepare some popcorn, and snuggle up on the couch. To make it extra special, you can create a themed movie night with matching snacks and drinks.

2. Cooking Challenge

Turn dinner into a fun and interactive experience by having a cooking challenge. Choose a recipe neither of you has tried before and work together to create a culinary masterpiece. Not only will you enjoy a delicious meal, but you’ll also have fun learning and creating together.

3. Stargazing Picnic

If you can sneak out after the kids are asleep, head to your backyard or a nearby park for a stargazing picnic. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and a thermos of hot chocolate. Spend the evening lying under the stars, talking about your dreams, and simply enjoying each other’s company.

4. Board Game Battle

Bring out your competitive side with a board game night. Choose games that you both enjoy and keep it light-hearted and fun. You can even make it interesting by adding little prizes for the winner.

5. DIY Spa Night

Create a relaxing spa experience at home. Light some candles, play soothing music, and take turns giving each other massages. You can also indulge in facials, foot soaks, and other pampering treatments. It’s a great way to unwind and connect.

6. Virtual Escape Room

If you enjoy puzzles and challenges, try a virtual escape room. These online experiences are designed to be immersive and interactive, allowing you to work together to solve clues and escape within a time limit. It’s a fun way to test your teamwork skills.

7. Recreate Your First Date

Take a trip down memory lane by recreating your first date. Cook the same meal, play the same music, or visit the same place (if possible). Reminiscing about the early days of your relationship can be a powerful way to rekindle the romance.

8. Fitness Fun

Combine fitness with fun by doing a workout together. Whether it’s a yoga session, a dance class, or a home workout routine, exercising together can boost your endorphins and bring you closer. Plus, it’s a great way to stay healthy.

9. Book Club for Two

Pick a book that interests both of you and read it together. Set aside time each week to discuss what you’ve read, share your thoughts, and dive into meaningful conversations. It’s a great way to connect intellectually and emotionally.

10. Themed Dinner Night

Choose a theme for the evening and plan everything around it. For example, you could have an Italian night with homemade pasta, Italian wine, and music from Italy. It adds an element of fun and makes the evening feel special.

Keeping the Spark Alive

Maintaining a strong partnership requires effort and intention, especially when you’re juggling the demands of parenting. Here are some tips to keep the spark alive:

• Prioritize Your Relationship: Make date nights a regular part of your schedule. Treat them as non-negotiable appointments.

• Communicate Openly: Share your feelings, hopes, and concerns with each other. Open communication fosters a deeper connection.

• Show Appreciation: Regularly express your gratitude and appreciation for each other. Small gestures of love can go a long way.

• Be Present: During your date nights, focus on each other. Put away distractions and be fully present in the moment.

• Keep it Fun: Don’t be afraid to be playful and spontaneous. Laughter and fun are essential ingredients in any relationship.

Dad Joke Vault

I had a dream about being a muffler.

I woke up exhausted.

The GRL DAD Treehouse

👀 Like Looking in a Mirror: These twin boys noticing each other for the first time will melt your heart!

⚾️ Cinderella Story: Need a little inspiration today? This story of a carpenter getting a chance to pitch in the MLB for the Boston Red Sox will get you fired up.

❓Ask these 4 questions: A billionaire asked his kids these four questions to help them see the world through a positive and inspiring lens.

The Job Board

Marketing Associate See's Candies

Warehouse Worker Jasper Engines and Transmissions

Sales Representative DES Group

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