The most popular medication used to prevent anaphylaxis in children with food
allergies is called the Epi-Pen. Although the company that makes this device
also makes an Epi-Pen Trainer, I have found that parents are better able to use
an Epi-Pen if they practice with the real device. To accomplish this, I keep a
supply of expired Epi-Pens on hand and give them to parents if one of their
children is diagnosed with a food allergy. (My supply comes from other parents
who give me their old Epi-Pens after they expire.) After showing parents how to
use the Epi-Pen, I have them go home and practice on an orange or grapefruit to
simulate what it will feel like if they need to administer the Epi-Pen to their
child. I ask parents to return used Epi-Pens so I can dispose of them with other
medical waste. If you have a child with food allergies, ask your doctor if he or
she could set up the same program for patients.
An Effective Way to Learn About Epi-Pens
Great Dad Talks is a series of conversations with experts on all aspects of the family adventure. With the perspective that “dads don’t always think like moms,” our mission is to support dad voices and our slightly different approaches to parenting. We’ll try to find solutions to every day challenges like getting kids off the couch and making STEM classes available for both boys and girls. But we’ll also tackle bigger issues when they come. The one main theme will be to support dads in the most important role of their lives that of being a great dad. Connect with us at greatdad.com and watch the video version of these podcasts at YouTube.com/greatdadnews
In this episode, Sean Dawson of Raising Men shares what he’s learned from interviewing many guests about masculinity, transmitting values, and raising kids with intention—especially with a son who has big energy in a culture that often tries to suppress boyhood. We explore the current “crisis of masculinity,” why it’s not a zero-sum game for boys and girls, and Sean’s framework of courage, character, and purpose. Sean reframes modern protection as creating emotional safety, compares performative strength to real strength, and explains how planning matters while staying flexible. He also shares how a friend’s tragic loss made him more intentional with his own son, and offers two core takeaways: give yourself grace and lead by modeling the man you want your kids to become.
Whether you’re a new dad or a seasoned father, you’ll find relatable stories, actionable tips, and plenty of wisdom in this conversation.
Check out Shaun’s website at raising.men
Visit these links and embark on the path to becoming the best parent you can be:
– GreatDad.com/coaching
– GreatDad.com/pq
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