Fathers Know Best at Watermark

TUCSON, Ariz., May 24 /PRNewswire/ -- A new tie may top the list of gifts kids will give their fathers on June 20th. However, experienced fathers at 26 Watermark retirement communities coast to coast want to shift the holiday spotlight onto those enduring gifts fathers can pass on to future generations.

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100524/NYFNST02)

Watermark associates recently asked dads in residence what advice they might share with young fathers today.  They spoke willingly, and minced no words.

"Have a steady job and stay out of trouble," recommends Herbert McPherson, a resident of The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay in St. Petersburg, Fla. Like many interviewees, McPherson stated "the wife and kids should always come first," and "fathers should set a good example for their children."

Fathers from Woodbury Mews in Woodbury, NJ agreed with their neighbor, Nick Vecchione, who said children should be raised to be "respectful, truthful and kind."  

Experienced fathers in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts couldn't agree more. Interviewed at East Village Place, the majority of dads said that teaching respect is one of the top three gifts a father can give a child.  

Other imperatives of fatherhood, they said, include:  lead by example, spend time with your children, listen to them, and love them.

Bruce Brummond of The Fountains at Crystal Lake in Illinois adds, "If you tell your children you are going to do something for them....do it!"

From The Fountains at Greenbriar in Independence, Missouri, John Cox tells young dads: "Make the most of each second. For, once past, it is gone forever." Now 91, Cox raised four children in California, Missouri and Colorado.

From his home at The Fountains at Millbrook in Millbrook, NY, Alex Strem recommends raising children "with a lot of love, some discipline, and some patience." However, he also warns: "Don't give them too much; have them earn it."

Watermark spokesperson Jill Hofer states, "We all benefit from the wisdom of our elders. It's amazing how they can break through the clutter with a few simple truths."

These fathers and others interviewed by Watermark raised their families a half century ago. Such perspective lends both clarity and credibility to their advice.  By speaking out, this experienced generation has given young Dads a most valuable Father's Day gift.

SOURCE Watermark Retirement Communities, Inc.