Geek FamilyLast month, I talked about the defining characteristics that make me a “Geek Parent.” This month, I’m going to focus on the best part of being a geek parent: sharing it with the geek family!
I have been a self-described geek, and proud of it, for my entire life. I made it through high school relatively unscathed with my nerd-dom still intact, and before I knew it I had a geek family unit of my own. My wife was not scared off, thankfully, by the fact that I have a little thing for Star Wars. By little, I mean not little at all. She has been extremely supportive of my Star Wars interests. She also enjoys it herself.
A major milestone for us as a family was in 2013, when we were able to fly down to Walt Disney World for Star Wars Weekends. For me, it was an opportunity to really share and show my love of Star Wars with my wife in a way that she hadn’t seen. And, it was a chance for her to experience it like I had for so many years. It was a blast for everyone. As a lifelong Disney fan, she was already looking forward to the trip.
However, we kept the trip as a surprise for my son until we got to the airport. He was pretty excited as you might assume. My son and I have gone to our fair share of smaller local events, but he had not seen anything like this before. He also loves Star Wars. He’s been unable to avoid it, but he got to see what a large community of fans he actually belonged to. The large amount of toys and collectibles at the gift shops probably didn’t hurt, either.
Geek Family Tip: Watch out for “Con Crud”
Since then, we’ve definitely enjoyed going to more events, small and large, together as a family. I’ve wanted them to be all inclusive, rather than just something for myself. Or, at least something my son and I can sneak off for an afternoon to self-indulge. I view my time off of work as time I get to spend with my whole family, so that means we try and do these things together.
“Geeky” or “nerdy” interests are still stereotyped as something to keep closeted. Something that should be tucked away in the basement, hidden from view, or packed away in boxes in the attic, never to see the light of day again. I’ve known people who were not allowed or encouraged to put their collections on display! It’s just not as much fun if the whole family isn’t on board. But, that doesn’t mean everyone has to have the same interests.
Here are some tips to get your geek family involved and onto the scene.
Choose The Right Event
Aside from Disney, my family has gone to events like Star Wars Reads Day, other library-type events, themed sports events, costumed parades, etc. Library events are a good choice if your children are readers, or you want to encourage them to read. It’s a good excuse to get them into the library, since there are different activities to participate in, as well as costumed heroes and villains to interact with. This October will see the fifth Star Wars Reads Day, so there you go!
Larger events, such as Comic Con or Star Wars Celebration are amazing experiences. There are things for all ages at Celebration because a variety of genres are represented. There’s guaranteed to have something to please everyone. These might not be the best, however, if you are attending with small children. While I’m sure they’d enjoy themselves for a little while, it’s just too big. Long hours of waiting in lines, walking a massive con floor, the heat, the crowds…I’m 35 and even I get cranky. One tool I use is the 501st website. From there, you can find the local garrison of costumed fans and see where they will be.
Plan Ahead
I try to check out online what things are going to be happening in my area ahead of time, that takes out a lot of the hassle. My mind can’t handle last-minute planning. If you are like me, too often the weekend is not the lazy, restful time I would love. Yard work and grocery shopping are gifts that keep on giving. Knowing what is coming up helps to possibly rearrange or fit in some of the things you don’t want to miss. Other plans can be made should some family members not be interested. Also, if the event will have items to purchase, like a toy show, you have time to set budgets and save up a bit.
It’s Not Just About You
More than likely, if I make it out to anything, there’s a good chance it has to do with Star Wars. That’s my thing. My kids love it, and my wife really likes it also. But that doesn’t mean that’s the only thing they like. I try to look for things that interest them also, even if I’m not the biggest fan. It helps to build their passion too. Know what your kids enjoy, and see what you can do with it. Inspire their creativity, and when they show interest in something, really encourage them! It’s important to let them know that no matter what they are into, they have your support.
Summer is here and there are a million things to do out there. Whether it’s a convention road trip or movie night at home, grab the geek family and have a great time!
Mike Harris hails from the suburbs of Chicago and has been a fan for most of his life. Working as an industrial radiographer and raising a family with his wife take up most of his time, but there’s always room for Star Wars books and podcasts! Just looking to give back to Star Wars and the fan community, it’s been a source of fun and learning for him for so long.