How You Gonna Do Daddy Like That? (The Daycare Betrayal)

Have a story or advice? Send me a note here!It’s my favorite part of the day. I get to daycare to pick up my daughter, and instead of smiles and open arms, she clings to her teacher and cries when I take her from her... ouchI’m not going to lie, that first time it happened, it broke my heart. I’ve been with her every day of her life, and I’m thinking, "How you going to do daddy like that?" But after the initial sting, I realized how lucky I am. She's with people she loves so much that she doesn't want to leave.In this episode, I’m reflecting on a "Year of Firsts," from the rookie terror of that first bath to the heavy emotions of the first daycare drop-off. Plus, a special shoutout for Teacher Appreciation Week to the incredible women who make my daughter feel safe and loved while I’m at work.In this confession:The Rookie Recap: Looking back at the first tooth, the first "Dada," and that terrifying first bath.The Daycare Sting: Navigating the moment your child chooses their teacher over you.The "Village" in Action: Why I’m actually grateful for those daycare tears.Teacher Appreciation: A special thank you to Miss Laetitia, Miss Stacey, and Miss Abby.I’m Rick. I’m still learning, still growing, and still trying not to take it personally when a toddler chooses her teacher over her old man.Support the show