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8-Year-Old Uses Her Allowance to Buy This Illegal Thing Heres Why Her Dad Is Calling Her Critics Envious
Uplifting News

8-Year-Old Uses Her Allowance to Buy This Illegal Thing Heres Why Her Dad Is Calling Her Critics Envious

In a bold move that defied conventional wisdom, eight-year-old Ruby McLellan, along with her siblings Angus McLellan and Lucy McLellan, made headlines by purchasing this bizarre thing with their allowance. In a world where "pocket money" typically fuels children's sweet tooth cravings or toy store adventures — you probably can't guess what it is.She Did What No 8-Year-Old Had Done BeforeUsing $6,000 of their pocket money, Ruby, 14-year-old Angus, and 13-year-old Lucy made history by putting a down payment on a four-bedroom house on Melbourne's southeast fringe two years ago, valued at $671,000.Despite facing online backlash and criticism calling their behavior "exploitive," the McLellan family stood by their decision. Ruby's father, Cam McLellan defended his daughter's actions as "required sacrifices" aimed at securing their financial future. He stressed the importance of teaching children the value of money and investing early, a lesson Ruby and her siblings are sure to take to heart. As of 2024, their home has increased in value from $671,000 to an estimated $960,000.How Did an 8-Year-Old Manage to Buy a House?TODAY Show/YouTubeIt's not rocket science. This is a pretty easy equation to solve. At just eight years old, Ruby McLellan didn't come into thousands of dollars by selling lemonade on her street corner. "There’s no easy silver bullet, but while my kids will get enough to get started, they are not silver spoons. They have a leg up, but so can anyone in Australia."Cam McLellan, Daily MailRuby's father, Cam McLellan, provided the funds for the house purchase, a fact that he readily acknowledges. While some may question the ethics of such a gift — and many people did — McLellan sees it as an investment in his children's financial education and future prosperity.So, does that make it right?The Public Attacked His Parenting — But He Couldn’t Care LessTODAY Show/ YouTubeAs soon as the news got ahold of this crazy story, McLellan came under fire. Critics speculated on the legality and morality of the move, with some suggesting it was a tax evasion scheme or, worse, exploitation of young minds. While McLellan frames the investment as an educational opportunity for his children, skeptics argue that the decision ultimately rests on his authority and influence. They worry that Ruby and her siblings might not fully understand what owning a property means. Some think that involving kids in such big financial decisions blurs the line between helpful guidance and too much control from parents. This raises questions about how much say children should have in matters like this and whether they might be taken advantage of. It's a reminder of how important it is to make sure kids are protected and understand what's going on when it comes to money.However, Mr. McLellan — who is the head of the OpenCorp property group — remained undeterred, emphasizing that the purchase was entirely legal and aimed at securing his children's financial future."It’s easy for someone who doesn’t have property or hasn’t made sacrifices, to be angry about it and easy to target a young kid who has a leg-up."Cam McLellanHe went on to share while tenants may find it "humiliating" to pay rent to children, he doubled down that this purchase was entirely driven by pragmatism, not to prove any point.One Father’s Divisive Advice for His Daughter’s “Haters”Cam McLellan had some fighting words for the naysayers and he quickly put himself at the center of a brewing media storm.McLellan was quick to say those attacking the "precocious property purchasers" — such as his prepubsecent children — would be better off devoting their energies to finding extra work, slice their discretionary spending, and saving money for their own first home."Young adults’ lifestyles are very flamboyant these days. I worked three jobs, I didn’t go out, I sold my car."Cam McLellan, Daily MailMr. McLellan went on to criticize the younger generation, encouraging them to "sacrifice" and "delay gratification." In an interview with the Daily Mail, he confidently concluded, "Eating in cafes and shopping has drained people’s money. Even owning a car, they like to change it every five years. I had the same car for ten years."Is It True? Is It Toxic? Or Is It Both?Cam McLellan's blunt advice has stirred debate, raising questions about the balance between financial prudence and the toll of excessive sacrifice. While his call for disciplined spending and hard work may resonate with some, others view it as a reflection of outdated attitudes towards wealth and success. McLellan's emphasis on austerity and delayed gratification may overlook the systemic barriers that hinder financial mobility for many young adults. As the conversation unfolds, it prompts reflection on the complex interplay between personal responsibility and societal structures in shaping financial outcomes.The duality of McLellan's advice — both true in its emphasis on frugality and hard work, yet potentially toxic in its failure to acknowledge systemic inequalities — highlights the need for a nuanced approach to financial education and empowerment. It underscores the importance of addressing both individual responsibility and broader structural issues to ensure equitable opportunities for all.But this isn't a conversation that concerns 8-year-old Ruby McLellan, who confirmed being a landlord at her age is "pretty cool."More from Goalcast:12-Year-Old Refuses to Do ‘Girl Chores’ Around the House – His Mom’s Response Goes ViralTeacher Hand Delivers Free Lunches to His Students at Their House – But That Wasn’t All He Brought8-Year-Old Loses All His Toys in a House Fire – Little Did He Know His Classmates and Teachers Had a Secret

Toddler Cant Stop Screaming in Packed Dollar Tree - Cashier Surprises Mom by Doing This
Uplifting News

Toddler Cant Stop Screaming in Packed Dollar Tree - Cashier Surprises Mom by Doing This

A toddler's laugh can light up a room, but their cries make can clear one! It's not their fault, but the thing is, with a fussy toddler? No one's happy. Most strangers can't help but stare and most parents can't help but feel ashamed for not being able to get their little one to "behave."Which is exactly what happened to one woman, when she was living a mom's nightmare — a crying toddler in the massive check out line. Thankfully one cashier saved the day in the cutest way possible.When Things Go Wrong at the Worst TimeMary-Ann Byrnes, 38, was just trying to get out of the house and get her nagging errands done when the chore took a turn for the worst.It's no secret that taking your toddler out for a day of adult fun (errands, errands, and more errands) is a gamble. You're always forced to do two things at once. Trying to put a cheque through at the bank? Whatever you do, don't stop bouncing that baby. When Byrnes went to the local Dollar Tree with little Mary-Ann — yes the two Byrnes Girls are twinning with their names — she was trying get in and out as quick as possible.Little Mary-Ann was growing restless and Byrnes was trying keep everything together before she threw a tantrum.The mother made it all the way to the check out counter unscathed! If only it ended there.Of course, it didn't.She Threw a Temper Tantrum at the Checkout CounterBecause life loves to throw a wrench our way every once in a while, this wasn't just a regular Dollar Tree.No. It was a jam-packed Dollar Tree with a line the size of the Great Wall of China trailing behind Byrnes!She was flush with embarrassment as she tried to shush her little girl who was screaming bloody murder because, duh — that's the unofficial job of toddlers everywhere.This was the one time Byrnes couldn't manage to do two things at once. She couldn't soothe her little girl and unload her groceries at the same time. Thankfully, someone with a little more experience stepped in. This Amazing Cashier Had the Magic TouchMary Ann Byrnes (@maryannbyrnes), TikTok Fatimah Leftwich was one Dollar Tree cashier who knew the power of "staying in her lane" — in the best way.At the first signs of struggle, this incredible cashier asked Byrnes if she had her permission to take over. Without even thinking, Byrnes said yes.Instantly, Leftwich got creative. She used the tools she had at her disposal and the results couldn't have been better!This definitely wasn't Leftwich's first rodeo. She knew all this toddler needed was a little stimulation. Something to distract her from her out-of-control nerves.With total control and confidence, she picked Miss Mary-Ann up, rested her on her side, and gave this little girl a big girl job.In the sweetest moment captured on video, Leftwich and Little Miss Byrnes scan the grocery items together while Byrnes loads the conveyor belt — talk about team work!Watch Mary-Ann Byrnes' Video: Byrnes' video amassed over 314K views on TikTok. The sweet moment went viral and TikTokers couldn't get enough! One user @cherlaluna even gave a shout out to Leftwich who quickly became her new hometown hero, "This is my Dollar Tree and she needs to be protected at all costs!"It's safe to say, Leftwich definitely has the maternal touch! They Were Both Having a Long Day — But They Ended It With a Round of SmilesByrnes' story seems like such a simple problem on the surface with a fairly easy solution, but a closer look proves there's more than meets the eye. Chances are, a lot of us would have clammed up in Byrnes' position. Yes, we would have gotten through it, but it definitely would have put a kink in our day. In the same breath, many of us in Fatimah Leftwich's position may not have thought to act in the same way. Sometimes we may think we're being respectful by "staying out of it," but that often does more harm than good.A situation as silly as a temper tantrum can make being a parent feel like the most impossible job in the world; a job that we can literally never retire from?!If nothing else, Leftwich let Byrnes know — it wasn't that serious. Toddlers cry one minute and they're giggling the next.When she needed it most, Leftwich reminded this mom she wasn't alone. Sometimes that's all we can do — and it's more than enough.More from Goalcast:Couple Shops at Target When Their Toddler Yells at an Elderly Man Passing By – His Response Wasn’t What They Were ExpectingTechnician Notices Woman’s Fussy Toddler When He Goes to Set Up Their Internet – His Response to Her Child Overwhelms HerLittle Boys Notice Their Neighbor’s House Is on Fire – Rush to Rescue Toddlers Stuck Inside Despite Being “Really Scared”

9-Year-Old Girl Loses Her Mom - Years Later, She Pens a Message About Her Single Dad
Everyday Heroes

9-Year-Old Girl Loses Her Mom - Years Later, She Pens a Message About Her Single Dad

Being a parent is hard. Doing it alone can feel nearly impossible. And yet, every day, millions of single parents step up to the plate and kill it, taking on the roles of both mother and father to their children.Tiana Sheehan was only nine years old when her mother died from lung cancer and her father, Glenn, suddenly found himself thrust into single parenthood. Over the next few years, he would be her sole guardian, guiding her through all the messy bits of growing up, including the ones in which most daughters typically turn to their mothers for help. It didn't go unnoticed. At the age of 23, fourteen years after her mother passed away, Tiana penned an emotional tribute to her dad, thanking him for "fulfilling both roles."And it's a powerful message to all the single parents out there.Daughter’s Letter to Her Single Dad Goes ViralIn a Facebook post that went viral on the page, Love What Matters, Tiana shared a core memory of her dad after a routine trip to the grocery store.She explained that she had been shopping in Meijer when she overheard a mother talking to her daughter about shaving her legs."It was her first time shopping for razors, and her mom was explaining what kind of razor she needed, how to shave her legs, etc.," Tiana wrote. "I felt that little punch in the gut that I normally feel when I see a mom and daughter doing mom-and-daughter things. I can't help it."And while she felt the familiar twinge of jealousy and sorrow, it also reminded her of a similar moment she shared with her dad when she was 10, and it made her giggle. "I'll never forget the look on my dad's face when I told him I wanted to shave my legs. It was the summer after mom died and some of the girls I went to summer camp with started teasing me about my hairy legs."There are some things in parenthood that you are just never prepared for. "I remember coming up to Dad and being so embarrassed to ask him for help, but man, did he handle it like a champ!" she continued. "For a moment he put his head down; and then he turned the TV off, took me into the bathroom, gave me a new blade on his razor, gave me his shaving cream, and taught me how to shave my legs."Despite being completely out of his depth, her dad didn't try to push her off or find the nearest woman. Instead, he pulled through. And Tiana? Never forgot it. Shoutout to the Single DadsWhen it comes to single parenting, mothers tend to take on the lion's share of the role. But there are a lot of single dads out there too. And it's to these single dads that Tiana addressed the next part of her letter. "Single dads don't get the credit they deserve; especially mine and all dads who are left playing both roles," Tiana continued in her post. "There was never a time in my childhood where I truly thought I was missing out on anything. My dad was so good at fulfilling both roles and making sure my childhood was as normal as possible; that there was never a time I thought life or God had screwed me over."Her dad handled it all — periods, shaving, broken hearts, even catty girlfriends. Tiana ended her post with a heartfelt thank you to her dad for never being too embarrassed to do the "girl stuff.""Dad, I know I haven't said it enough, so here's a big public THANK YOU for never, ever, ever being too much of a man to be my mom." Her words hit home. Not just with her dad but with the more than 40,000 people who liked her post. Tiana and her dad were shocked by the response. "I never thought in a million years that so many people would see and share it — or that it would resonate with so many people," Tiana told People. Single Parents Are SuperheroesOftentimes as parents, we feel like we're failing. Like we're not doing enough. For single parents, this can hit doubly hard as they carry the weight of providing and caring for their children without the support of a partner.Taking on the roles of both mother and father is no easy feat. And yet, so many parents do it all every single day. Making sure that their kids are happy, healthy, and above all else, loved. And that is something to honor and celebrate. "Single parents rock! They deserve all the praise in the world. It’s not single moms or single dads, single PARENTS are superheroes!" Tiana Sheehan via PeopleWe couldn't agree more. More from Goalcast:Shocked Mom Finds Dozens of Notes In Her Daughter’s Drawers – Realizes Her Husband Has Given ThemGarbage Collector Wakes Up at 3 AM to Make Only $10 a Day – Years Later, His Daughter Makes His Dream Come TrueGarbage Collector Wakes Up at 3 AM to Make Only $10 a Day – Years Later, His Daughter Makes His Dream Come True

Shocked Mom Finds Dozens of Notes In Her Daughter's Drawers - Realizes Her Husband Has Given Them
Uplifting News

Shocked Mom Finds Dozens of Notes In Her Daughter's Drawers - Realizes Her Husband Has Given Them

The camera pans from a mother in tears to the room and they're strewn all over the place. What would motivate anyone -- let alone her husband -- to do something like this? We'll let you decide. A Shocking DiscoveryPhoto by Karolina GrabowskaIt's a natural law that parents are tempted to snoop around on their kids. After all, as they grow up (way too quickly), they do more and share less, leaving their once-informed parents in the dark about their lives.Yet, most parents will do their best to resist and respect their kids' privacy. However, they do have small windows into their world like, for example, placing fresh clothes in their drawers.As per Good Morning America, Sabrina Clendenin, a 33-year-old mother of three girls, gasped when she opened one of their drawers and found something shocking."What I laid out on the tables were not even all of them," Sabrina Clendenin said. "When I came across them all stuffed in a drawer, I was like, 'What in the world?'" she recalled. Indeed, when she figures out what's going on, it sets social media on fire. A Father’s Epic BondClendenin quickly realizes that her husband is the culprit, and he's left them all over. Her utter shock gives her the motivation to go on TikTok and expose it to the world.The video starts with her covering her face in tears as the camera pans around the room. The caption reads 'When you find all the lunch notes your kids keep from their dad.'There, laid out on three tables placed side-by-side, are sticky notes authored by husband Jordan Clendenin. He'd been packing them with his girls' lunches every day, and they cherished them so much they kept every single one.They include messages of love and encouragement like, "I love you very very much! You’re such an amazing daughter!” and "Try to remember a thing that makes you smile or laugh in school today."Clendenin also shares that her husband gets creative with themed days such as "What am I Wednesday, Fun Fact Friday, Motivational Monday."A Father’s Notes Go ViralThe video goes absolutely bonkers with 2 million views and almost 17,000 shares. It also catches the attention of many impressed dads. "What a wonderful father. If everyone had a father like him I can’t imagine how much better our world be," glowed one.Sabrina hopes that her husband sets a new trend for dads around the world. "I think that's really cute. I thought that was sweet to see all those dads be like, 'I'm gonna step up my game,'" she said.How One Father Proves the Importance of Showing UpSadly, many daughters don't have a father around, and the impact is profound.According to Psychology Today, girls who grow up without a father (biological or other) are more likely to endure alcoholism, drop out of school, and go to prison.Yet, it also adds the crucial point that 'Even if a father is physically present, his emotional absence can negatively affect a daughter into adulthood.' In other words, success isn't just about showing up, it's about showing love. In the end, fathers are flawed human beings, learning like everyone else. They can polish their parenting game by looking at this creative and caring pop.As for what the future holds, his wife doesn't see that stopping anytime soon. "I don't think he can stop now. I think he's locked in for life. They're gonna be in college and they're gonna expect those notes."More from Goalcast:Single Dad Delivers Pizza to Make Ends Meet – Then He Pulls Up to a Parking Lot to Find ThisSingle Dad Discovers His 9-Year-Old Son Was a “Bully” — Doesn’t Demand an Apology for This ReasonLittle Girl Needs to Use the Bathroom, but Confused Dad Doesn’t Know Where to Go – Then a Stranger Makes an Offer

Little Girl Starts Screaming at McDonalds - Mom Burst into Tears After Seeing One Employees Actions
Uplifting News

Little Girl Starts Screaming at McDonalds - Mom Burst into Tears After Seeing One Employees Actions

Being a parent can be tough. Being a parent to a child with special needs can be especially tough. So often you’re just trying to go about your day and to get by, but strangers can be judgemental or give you a hard time when you’re just doing your best.That’s why, when someone unexpectedly steps up with kindness or empathy, it can mean the world. Just ask this mom from Birtley, England.A Rough StartCandice Hudspith decided to take her daughters to the local McDonald’s one weekend for a quick bite. As she entered the restaurant with Harper, 4, and Indy, 2, Harper began to scream and shout. Harper had been diagnosed with autism just before her fourth birthday, and Candice knew her daughter had been triggered.“I don’t know what had triggered Harper. When I got out of the car, I knew she was hungry, but there was just something triggering her, and the difficult thing is you can’t ask what it is,” Hudspith recalled to Chronicle Live. “Walking in she was screaming, saying, ‘no no no.’ Everyone was looking at me like I was the mother with the screaming child.”Normally, Hudspith would get the food and go, taking her daughter out of a stressful situation like that. But, thanks to the kindness of someone working there, her family’s whole day turned around, and she was even able to enjoy a cup of hot coffee.A Compassionate EmployeeAs Hudspith felt the eyes of everyone on her, an employee named Rachel approached them. “She said, ‘Oh wow, I think I have a flag, would you like one?’ and she looked at me and said, ‘You’re doing an amazing job,’” the frazzled mother recalled.At that point, Harper ran off and hid under one of the seats. Hudspith wasn’t sure what to do next, but Rachel continued doling out the unexpected kindness. She grabbed some paper and crayons and got down on the floor with the little girl.“You could see Harper slowly coming out of herself. She was back in her little world, being happy Harper again,” Hudspith said. “I literally burst into tears. I felt like I didn't even have to say that she has autism, it was like she read my mind. It was so lovely what she was doing,” she continued.“I don't think Rachel realized how good her customer service was. It may sound like nothing to others, but it meant the world to me. Absolutely outstanding service.”A Public Thank YouLater, after Hudspith returned home and had settled the girls down, she knew she wanted to share the story about the employee who had meant so much to her. So she hopped on Facebook and reiterated the difference kindness can make to struggling parents like her.She added how important it is for people to be understanding of autism and explained how she was initially in denial about her daughter’s diagnosis. Having it though, wasn’t a label: it became a tool so that she could get the help her family needed.“All the doors open up, and you are able to get the best for your child. If I had still been in denial, I don't know where Harper would be now, but with me being the mum I am and having the support around me, she's come on so much,” she wrote, as per Chronicle Live.“If you do see a situation like that in public, you really shouldn't judge. I think our generation is starting to understand a lot more about autism; back in the day, it would be seen as 'naughty children' but I think there is more understanding now.”Remembering EmpathyParenting is a wonderful and weird journey, but it can also be overwhelming at the best of times. That’s why the kindness and empathy of strangers can make such a big difference in our lives. This story reminds us of that power, and how amazing it can be when someone tries to put themselves in a parent’s shoes — particularly a parent who has a child with autism.Educating ourselves about others’ differences is the best way to understand what they may be going through. Whether you ask questions, read books, take courses, or watch documentaries or news programs, surrounding yourself with information is beneficial to you and those in your corner of the world.You never know when that information may come in handy. Or, if it could one day allow you to be that empathetic person a struggling person may randomly need in their lives.More from Goalcast:Little Boy With Autism Fails Test – So His Teacher Writes Him a Letter That “Broke” His MomWoman Takes Brother With Autism to McDonald’s – One Employee’s Behavior Towards Him Goes ViralLittle Girl With Autism Tries to Blow Out Stranger’s Birthday Candles — His Reaction Goes Viral

Single Man Adopts Sick Baby With No Parents - He Grows Up to Make History
Uplifting News

Single Man Adopts Sick Baby With No Parents - He Grows Up to Make History

Family isn’t always the one you were born into. Blended, adoptive, and chosen families can be just as important in terms of your growth and relationships. And often, these untraditional family units can be particularly special and meaningful in a person’s life.That’s true for this father-son duo. They found each other in an unconventional way and proved to everyone that families can be more than one thing.An Aspiring FatherYears ago, Jerry Windle didn’t think fatherhood was in the cards for him. Sure, he wanted to be a dad, but as a single gay man in the 1990s, he didn’t believe it was possible.“I got a little bit sad and depressed about the fact that I could never have a child,” he told Good Morning America. “But I'd accepted that.”Then he came across a magazine article about a man who adopted a child from Cambodia. The thing that stood out to him was that the article never mentioned a mother, but instead described the father-son relationship.“I called the agency [named in the article] and just said, 'Is it possible for a single person to adopt?' and they said, 'Yes,'” Windle recalled. “I got a packet of information and an application about a week later, and I took probably three days and filled out every single document, got fingerprinted, filled out my background information, I did everything.”A Dream Come TrueVery soon after Windle handed in his application, he learned about a little boy named Pisey who was in an orphanage in Cambodia. Pisey, which means “little darling” in Cambodian, immediately caught Windle’s attention and he knew that he was looking at his son.“It was done the second I opened the envelope and saw that photograph,” he recalled. “I sent a photo of me and asked them to give it to him in a necklace and explain to him that I was his daddy and was going to be coming to get him.”Five months later Windle brought his son, now named Jordan, home. He was ill with scabies and intestinal parasites and suffered from severe infections. But Windle was determined to get his health back up.“When I held him in my arms that first moment, I made a promise to him that I would be the best dad I could possibly be,” he continued. “I wanted his youth to be filled with wonder and amazement. That has been my mission from Day 1.”An Unexpected PathWhen Jordan was seven, Windle signed him up for a summer aquatics class. There, someone important saw him jump off the diving board one day: Tim O’Brien. O’Brien’s father, Dr. Ron O’Brien, had been the coach of legendary diver Greg Louganis. Tim immediately asked to speak with Windle.“He said, 'You need to get this child into diving. He will be a national champion one day. He may even be an Olympian one day,'” Windle recalled.So, Windle put Jordan into diving, and before he had even completed a year, he was doing memorable dives. The following year, he won the junior national championship. When he continued growing in the sport, the family moved to Indianapolis and then North Carolina so that he could receive the instruction he needed.In 2021, Jordan made his father proud by joining the U.S. Olympic diving team. He made history by becoming the first diver of Cambodian descent to compete in the Olympics. He continues to be proud of his heritage and has a Cambodian flag tattooed on his arm for people to see when he dives. According to Windle, Jordan is treated like a rock star when he returns to the country.As for Jordan, he told Today that he dives for his dad and how much his dad loves watching him.“Without him making all the sacrifices that he has, and his love and support the whole time we've been together, I really wouldn't be where I am today,” he told the publication. “I have him to thank for everything, all my accomplishments. It's been an amazing journey with him, and we're still rolling.”There Are Many Ways to Be a ParentThis story is so heartwarming because it’s a beautiful narrative of two strangers coming together and impacting each other’s lives in an unexpected and meaningful way. It reminds us that family can be many things, so long as it’s based on love.It also reminds us that there are many ways to be a parent. Whether you feel as though you don’t have a “conventional” family unit or you’re facing infertility issues, being a parent is something you can still experience. Fostering, adoption, volunteering with certain organizations, or even just being the best aunt or uncle are all ways to make a positive impact on a young person’s life.You never know — with your guidance and love, odds are they, too, will go on to do great things in life.More from Goalcast:Woman Sits Next to Pregnant Stranger on Flight – Ends Up Adopting Her Newborn BabyWoman Has a Dream About the Same Baby for Months – Fights to Adopt Her Husband’s Dead Ex-wife’s SonWorker at Adoption Agency Refuses to Go to Her Grave With Important Secret — How Her Risky Confession Changed Two Lives Forever

Moms Video About How She Deals With Her Hard Child Goes Viral - For All the Right Reasons
Uplifting News

Moms Video About How She Deals With Her Hard Child Goes Viral - For All the Right Reasons

It's no secret social media can make us feel bad about ourselves sometimes — we're endlessly scrolling through people sharing their perfect lives or perfect bodies and it can seem so much better than what we've got.Social media envy is real, but TikToker Hannah Flint is one of the momfluencers using her powers to keep it real.How One Mom Is Blocking out the HatersOn her page (@hannahflint_), the mother of 4 talks about taboo subjects like postpartum or normalizing not breastfeeding your baby. While everyone may not agree with her, Flint willingly puts herself in the line of fire. Sharing her hot takes, she's almost taunting the mommy-shamers to come out of the woodwork.But it seems Flint isn't sharing her opinions for the haters — she's here to make the women just like her, feel less alone.And it's safe to say, it's working.Hannah Flint/TikTokIn short, this is one mom that doesn't shy away from the hard-to-discuss topics — including what it's really like to parent the "hard child.""This is our 'hard child.' Our 'doesn't listen' child. Our 'do it myself' child..."Hannah Flint, TikTokIn Flint's now-viral TikTok, the tough-love mama shares how parenting the "hard child" can feel impossible — and why she even bothers putting up with it! Her answer may just surprise you.Watch Hannah Flint's Video:The video opens on a little girl in an apron with her blonde hair pulled back in a loose ponytail. When she turns to the camera, she's crying and it's clear she's just been throwing a tantrum. “The Hard Ones Are the Ones Who Will Change the World”In this heartwarming series of clips, Flint expertly cuts together an all-encompassing sample of the highs and lows that come with parenting the hard child. Her message is clear: there is no rose without a thorn."This is our 'hard child'...she is also our resilient child. fearless child. independent child. try anything child. The one who makes us laugh the most. And speaks her mind. So just in case you need a reminder on those hard days...the hard ones are the ones who will change the world."Hannah Flint, TikTokIn being able to step back in those difficult moments, Flint was able to see her daughter for the whole of who she is.While this realization may not seem groundbreaking on the surface, Flint's comment section tells a different story.“Hard Children” Everywhere Finally Felt SeenIn being unafraid to call 'a spade a spade,' Flint was able to start a conversation about how being difficult can be a curse and a blessing. "Thank you from all the 'hard' children who are now adults ❤️" @smithrachel21 wrote."I was the hard child. I’m outspoken passionate, and empathetic. My daughter is just like me. It’s hard, but I know she’ll do great things," @ms.patrick31 commented.You Have to Take the Good With the BadIf there's one thing Flint wants to remind us is that as a kid finding your sea legs (so to speak) is challenge.Yes, the child who doesn't listen may be more than you can handle on the days where you're just trying to get your grocery shopping done. Those are probably the days where you're grateful for your "responsible" rule-follower child.But on the days when you need a laugh or a pick-me-up, those are the days thank your lucky stars for that "hard child." Because they're also the ones who take charge and take chances. They are the "fearless" child and they are the change makers we need — at least that's how Flint sees it.More from Goalcast:People Are Sharing Their One “Simple Rule” That Would “Fix” the World – And the Replies Are GoldenWoman Goes With High School Sweetheart on a Date – Finds Out He’d Been Working on a Secret for Months16-Year-Old Becomes Homeless After Parents Ask Her to Move Out – Years Later, a Shocking Scene Changes Everything

Single Dad Discovers His 9-Year-Old Son Was a Bully Doesnt Demand an Apology for This Reason
Uplifting News

Single Dad Discovers His 9-Year-Old Son Was a Bully Doesnt Demand an Apology for This Reason

Like most parents, Patrick Forseth is doing his best to raise a respectful kid who treats others with love and kindness. But when this single dad discovered his son was bullying another classmate, he hit a bump in the parenting road.Instead of taking his son's behavior as a sign of personal failure, Forseth did the exact opposite — and it made all the difference.After careful consideration, this single dad proved he didn't need a partner to consult with — he knew just what to do.In his brilliant three minute video, the Arkansas native shares what happened and how he attacked the problem.Here's what we can learn from his "gentle parenting" approach.How a Man Reacted to a ”Prank” His Son Had PulledPatrick Forseth/ TikTokWhen Forseth received an email about a "prank" his son Lincoln pulled, he knew the teacher was sugar coating a bigger problem.The teacher shared that Forseth's 9-year-old had unfortunately pulled a stunt that left his fellow classmate feeling hurt and embarrassed."I don't care who you are — that's bullying."Patrick Forseth, TikTokWhile it can be hard to see the faults in our kids we work so tirelessly to raise, this one dad was under no illusions.In his video, Forseth shares his simple philosophy. "If you do something to somebody that, you know, has the potential end result of them being embarrassed in front of a class or hurt, you’re bullying.”Forseth chose the road less traveled. Instead of failing to recognize his son's behavior as problematic, he chose to embrace the situation fully.Amazingly, instead of seeing the bullying as a result of his own parenting, he took the opportunity to show up and show case his parental strengths. It Was a “Long Talk” Not a LectureFor Forseth, it wasn't just about this isolated incident. It was about showing his son Lincoln the kind of person he chose to be in that moment and how that had the potential to affect his choices down the line.He opened the discussion by asking his son how he would feel if the roles were reversed. Yes, we can never deny the old "step in somebody else's shoes" still has its charm. But it didn't end there.Forseth didn't give his son a run-of-the-mill lecture listing all his faults and then abruptly confiscating his iPad and sending him to his room without dinner. Those of us who are older know this punishment well and most of the time "sitting in our room to think about what we've done" never helped.In fact, the harsh punishment just breeds contempt for our parents and made us want to lash out more at the kid who put us there.It Wasn’t a Monologue — It Was a DialogueKids aren't that much different than adults. If our boss pulled us aside for an hour and talked our ear off about how poorly we've been performing lately and why they'll have to scale back our lunch hours so we can make up for all our work, we'd probably not take the news so well.A better approach would be for our boss to acknowledge how we have previously performed much better — and open up a dialogue for how we can work together to do better so we can achieve goals, collectively.We all prefer to be talked to rather than talked at. So this single dad applied that same principle to his son's predicament — and guess what? It totally paid off.Watch Patrick Forseth’s Video:Why One Dad Didn’t Force His Son to ApologizeIn his now viral TikTok, Patrick Forseth (@halfdeaddad) shared that while he found an appropriate punishment for his son, he didn't do what you would think.He didn't force him to apologize.But he did encourage it."I demanded nothing out of him. I demanded no apology, I demanded no apology to the teacher.”Patrick Forseth, TikTokHe continued, “I told him that we have the opportunity to go back and make things right. We can't take things back, but we can try to correct things and look for forgiveness.”And that's exactly what 9-year-old Lincoln Forseth did.We Can’t Take Anything Back but We Can Make It Right"Doing the next right thing" may sound simple but it's not easy. While Forseth was honest with Lincoln and told him he can't take anything back, he assured him he could do better next time.And Lincoln chose to do better in the cutest way possible.Sharing His Pokemon CardsPatrick Forseth/ TikTokWhen Lincoln returned to school the next day he was inspired by his discussion with his dad.Yes, he admitted he was nervous but he was a little excited too. Instead of just apologizing, Lincoln chose to extend a hand of friendship.He asked his classmate what he liked — and to his surprise found common ground.Both boys had a shared love of collecting Pokemon Cards. Right then and there Lincoln made up his mind that when he would go home, he would dust off two of his favorite Pokemon cards and gift them to his new friend.His sweet gesture of cleaning the cards is better than any forced apology.How One Dad Emphasized the Importance of Talking to Your KidsWe may try out best to be impartial, but it's easy to fall into the trap of seeing our children as an extension of ourselves. And it makes sense! After all, they are literally made up of our very own DNA!But in making it about us we miss the point entirely. Instead of taking his son's behavior as a sign of personal failure, Forseth did the exact opposite — and it made all the difference.“I just want to encourage all parents to talk to your kids,” Forseth concluded. “Let's try to avoid just the swat on the butt [and] send them to their room. Doesn't teach them anything.”Sometimes, in trying to warn their children about the importance of their actions, parents can make the innocent mistake of making their kids feel like they are innately "bad" kids. Instead of focusing on their choices, they refuse to see the problem at all. Either ends of the spectrum are extreme and don't get through to kids in the long run. Studies have proven that children grow most when they believe in their innate goodness and understand that yes, their choices have weight, but they always have the power to choose better.More from Goalcast:Diner Owner Finds Out Homeless People Are Begging His Customers for Money – The Way He Handled It Goes ViralMan Messages His High School Bully on Facebook After 20 Years and Confronts Him – But He Receives an Unexpected ResponseRacist Man Refuses to Apologize for His Daughter’s Bullying – Until the Victim’s Father Gets the Last Laugh

Little Girl Needs to Use the Bathroom, but Confused Dad Doesnt Know Where to Go - Then a Stranger Makes an Offer
Uplifting News

Little Girl Needs to Use the Bathroom, but Confused Dad Doesnt Know Where to Go - Then a Stranger Makes an Offer

Traveling with kids is always a struggle — even for the families that sprung for the top-of-the-line compact strollers. Whether it's across the world or across the street, kids have a way of adding extra flair to any situation. They complain that they are hungry or thirsty, sometimes during the most inconvenient of times. And of course, there's the dreaded, "I have to go to the bathroom." And no, they can never wait.While trying to catch a train with his 6-year-old daughter, one dad traveling solo faced the ultimate challenge — taking his little girl into the men's washroom.When It Comes to Bathrooms, Mothers Know Best!It's not everyday you see a changing table by the urinals — and I'm not petitioning we change that!Still, moms seem to have the bathroom dance sorted – ladies' restrooms are typically clean, equipped, and welcoming. But for dads, especially #GirlDads, it's a different and messier story. While I wouldn't know personally, word on the street is, men's washrooms aren't the cleanest for little girls?Go figure.His Daughter Had “To Go” — And He Didn’t Know Where to Take HerKier Gaines/InstagramWhen father, Kier Gaines, was trying to catch a train back to Washington, DC, he found himself in the middle of a real Sophie's Choice.His daughter, Emery, had to go — and to his dismay, she needed a little assistance. At home, it'd be no biggie, but in public? Gaines knew his options were limited and he was running out of time. Option 1: he could bring Emery into the women's washroom, but it was a busy location and he understandably didn't want to risk making the other women feel "uncomfortable" with his presence. Option 2: he could bring his little girl into the men's room. But that seemed awkward for everyone involved — especially after scoping out the place. “She needed to go, but the men’s restroom was really filthy and I wasn’t sure what to do.”Kier Gaines, TODAY.comYes. The bathroom was in the exact condition you would imagine a men's public restroom at the Philadelphia train station would be.Thankfully, one janitor caught Gaines' eye and without any words needing to be exchanged he knew exactly the problem — and was just the man to provide the exact solution."One of the porters that cleans here saw me and he was like, 'Hey bro, you want me to hit the bathroom and clean it for you?' I said, 'Yeah, thank you, man.'"“You Want Me to Clean the Bathroom for You?”Jorsh Delfish, 31, is the resident custodian at Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station and has a little girl of his own. When he saw a fellow father at a crossroads, he knew just how to step in and he brought his mop with him.“I'm a single dad of a little girl. I saw [Gaines] was struggling and I wanted to help because I’ve been in the same situation many times, and it's stressful."Jorsh Delflish, TODAY.comIn Gaines' words, Delfish understood the importance of making little Emery feel "comfortable and safe" and to say Delfish went above and beyond is an understatement.“He Sprayed His Own Cologne”He didn't just make it safe, he made it smell good too!"I wiped down the toilet seat, I sprayed my own cologne so it would smell good, I disinfected everything,” Delfish says. “It's not the first time I've done that. I like helping other parents. I like helping out my co-workers. We gotta have each other’s backs, you know?"Delfish says working maintenance at Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station is a healthy distraction after heartbreakingly losing his 1-year-old son, Avis, in 2022. “There Is No Such Thing as a Small Gesture”Kier Gaines/InstagramWhen Delfish shared he just wanted to make an "impact," he had no idea just how big that impact would be.Kier Gaines isn't just a father, he's also a licensed therapist and motivational speaker with over 600,000 followers. Naturally, his followers were so moved to hear his story about how one man's "small gesture" wasn't small at all.“You know that tingly feeling like you could cry? I feel that. No one wants to hear a man complaining about what’s difficult for him. No one wants to hear a dad complaining about what’s hard. But for that man to see me struggling … and to clean that stall for my baby, man, that meant the world.”Kier GainesThe post racked up over 800,000 likes and the comment section was flooded with other dads sharing their same experience."Single girl dad here, definitely been there bro. I used to pray for the 'family' facilities to be available," @enricoflamingo shared.Delfish's gesture didn't just help one dad out of a sticky situation, his act also prompted an even bigger conversation. A pretty big "impact," if you ask me.More from Goalcast:

Teen Wont Stop Misbehaving in Class - So His Dad Threatens Him With a Lesson Hell Never Forget
Uplifting News

Teen Wont Stop Misbehaving in Class - So His Dad Threatens Him With a Lesson Hell Never Forget

Parenting takes a lot of love, patience, and creativity, among other things. Especially when your children leave the house and fail to make great choices. Sometimes, despite your best efforts to teach your kids to be good people, they’ll still misbehave at school or with friends.That was what one dad was facing with his teen son. The dad was repeatedly getting notes about his kid’s misbehavior in class, so he decided to finally do something about it. What he did, however, quickly went viral.A Problem at SchoolSeventeen-year-old Bradley Howard had been getting into trouble at school. He was talking too much during physics class and disrupting the lessons. The teacher wrote home several times and spoke with Bradley’s parents, Brad and Denise Howard.As most parents would do, they spoke with Bradley and explained why he needed to stop chatting so much. Finally, Brad threatened his son.“If you do this again, if we get another note from your teacher, I'm going to come up there and sit with you in class,” Brad recalled telling his son to NBC News. Whether Bradley forgot or didn’t think his pops was serious, lo and behold, the parents received yet another notification that their son was chatting it up. Brad knew he had to make good on his threat.A Memorable School DayA few days later, Brad, a pastor, geared up for what he was about to do.“Friday is my only day off, so my wife wakes me up and says, 'Brad, it's time for you to go to school.' I thought, 'Oh no, what have I done?'" the father told BuzzFeed News.Brad got ready and headed to physics class, where Bradley had no idea he'd be. When he walked into his class, it took him a moment to realize his dad was there.“We didn't tell him anything," Brad told NBC News. “I was in the classroom sitting beside his chair when he walked in. He didn't see me at first. Then he was shocked.”As most teens would, Bradley died of embarrassment. No kid that age wants their parents showing up on their turf. His classmates had a different opinion though.“I think they had a good time. Especially knowing that Bradley was put in an uncomfortable situation,” Brad confessed to BuzzFeed News.A Lesson Goes ViralBrad took a selfie with his son as proof to his wife that he had actually shown up. But the couple’s daughter and Bradley’s sister, Molli, thought it was hilarious. She posted the photo online, and it went viral. Eventually, Brad also posted it.“Just making good on a promise,” he wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.Since then, plenty of people have commended Brad on his positive but impactful parenting choice. Even TV personality Montel Williams joined in, writing, “This is awesome!!! One dad to another, well done ;).”Although the family got a laugh over their moment of fame, Brad wanted to reiterate that the moral of this story is that his lesson worked. At least for now.“I pray it was a one-time thing,” he told BuzzFeed News. “I don’t think I’d ever do it again.”Parenting With LoveThere are many ways to parent and ways that work for each family and their specific circumstances. But one thing that viral parenting stories like these all seem to have in common is that the mom or dad in question tries to teach a valuable life lesson that comes from a place of love. These stories are also classics that the families will probably look back on one day and laugh about.However you parent, one thing we can all agree on is that it takes a village. Parenting can be just as hard as it is rewarding, but hopefully, everyone grows from these experiences.No one is perfect, including kids. But when you parent with love and show your kids that you’ll be there no matter what (even if it means accompanying them to class!) odds are they’ll turn out pretty great. More from Goalcast:Furious Mom Punishes Her Suspended Son in a Unique Way – The Result Is AstonishingMom Has Enough of 13-Year-Old Son’s Entitled Behavior – So She Draws Up a Contract to Teach Him a LessonDaughter Refuses to Clean Her Room – So Her Mom Puts All Her Things in Garbage Bags to Teach Her a Lesson