Some of us used to sneak out to mom's closet and try on her shoes and clothes, pretending to be Cyndi Lauper-- this is what 'Entertaining Babies' is all about! How to use our inner (some would say: hidden) creativity during our time with our babies and toddlers. From the moment they open their eyes, bring out the Cyndi Lauper in you in order to stimulate them, create a vibe of music and laughter in the family without leaving your home! This episode is great for the winter season.
Unless you are Lord Whatsisface of Downton Abbey, you're gonna have a pretty significant amount of time with your kid(s) from day one. When you're not changing diapers, feeding, bathing (and occasionally crying into your hands in the other room), how will you entertain and engage them during the period of their lives where they absorb the most? We interview Mark Reis, an entertainer himself - and a gay dad - about what he does. And, of course, we have no shortage of thoughts and opinions (oh, the opinions) of our own about what works. Spoiler Alert: The Itsy Bitsy Spider does not come off well in this episode.

About Mark Reis
Mark is an actor, singer, dancer, solo artist, children's author and father relocated to Los Angeles with his partner in 2005 to learn more about adoption and creating a family. In 2008, with the help of Southern California Foster Family and Adoption Agency (now Extraordinary Families) they adopted their son Bodhi. Mark comes from a dance and theatrical background from the University of Utah, and 16 years in New York City as a professional Broadway dancer with credits such as FOSSE, CHICAGO, RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL, JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, FUNNY GIRL, 42ND ST to name a few. In Los Angeles, Mark's main priority is Bodhi, but still he finds time to remain creative in his work with Disney in the FROZEN Live show at The Hyperion Theatre, performing his two solo 1 Man Shows (Broadway World Award for Best Male Cabaret Performer), performing regionally for The Hollywood Bowl, Music Theatre West, and 3D Theatricals, and teaching tap when the opportunities present themselves.

Episode Credits:
Co-Hosts: Yan Dekel, Alex Maghen
Guest: Mark Reis, Actor, Dancer and Yoga Teacher
Music: Hercules & Love Affair, “Leonora” buy here
Articles referred to in this episode:
Our Kids and "Gay Music" (Daddy Square blog)
Carly Rae Jepsen - I Really Like You

 

For any questions, comments or advise, please do not hesitate to contact us at hello@daddysqr.com or on Twitter @yanirdekel

Daddy Square: The Podcast is a part of GaysWithKids.com