Daughter's objection to the kilt - need advice.

[Nile]

Spinnaker,

When I was younger, it bothered me that my dad would come from work dressed in a suit, to watch me in little league or gymnastics while the dads of my friends would be mostly, in jeans and plaid shirts. There was certainly nothing wrong with the way my dad dressed, it was just that he was dressed different than the circumstantial "norm" (for example, all the fathers would be expected to be in suits in church, in those days).

Part of our responsibility as parents is to teach our children by being examples, not to turn them into "mini-me's" but to encourage them to think for themselves, to seek and follow their own interests. If you present a positive picture of your interests, they may become interested in it too, but if you try to push it on them... well that's just not the best way in my opinion. (I've raised three children and have made all the mistakes and yet, somehow, they turned out OK!)

To me, it's wonderful that you are concerned about your daughters feelings and acceptance but, be careful regarding your interest in wearing the kilt; it's your interest, not necessarily by extension, your families. As much as you want them to accept your interest, you must understand their point of view as well.

Your daughter is young but soon, as she broadens her horizons (& discovers boys), she will discover more of the world around her and will come to realize that her slightly unusual Dad is kinda cool.

Nile