We’ve all felt the judging eyes. We’ve felt the embarrassment. We’ve asked in whispers or over text, “Is it ok?” “Do they mind?” “Are you sure?” We’ve held our breath, crossed our fingers, been desperately anxious, hoping that our kids wouldn’t cry or misbehave or cause problems.

But you know what? Screw them.

If you want to bring your kids, bring them. If people have a problem with that, let them.

Just recently, the Olympic skater Tara Lipinski had to deal with some of the above over her decision to bring her 2-year-old with her to the Milan winter Olympics. “Maybe I don’t want to choose,” she replied on social media. “I want my daughter to see a mother who chases her dreams and shows up fully for her.”

No one should have to apologize for bringing their kids with them. They should be praised! It’s called being an active and involved parent. There’s nothing wrong with that. And there’s definitely nothing wrong with letting your kids see you work, letting them see you at your best, as we talk about in the January 28th entry of The Daily Dad book (keepsake leatherbound edition available here). If there’s anywhere or anything we should expose them to, it’s that!

Stop worrying what random strangers think. Worry what your kids will think. Think about what they can take from this. Think about that message. That’s really the important thing.

P.S. For daily lessons and stories about how to encourage your kids and be the best parent you can be, get your copy of The Daily Dad book here.

We’ve meticulously crafted the leatherbound edition with beautiful features designed to stand the test of time. From its luxurious leather cover with gold foil stamping to its ribbon bookmark and illustrations, every element has been thoughtfully chosen to create an heirloom that can be passed down through generations (it also makes a great gift and you can choose to have it signed).

Get your copy and learn more at dailydad.com/leather today!