Lots of Wake County dads know all about the YMCA of the Triangle's Guides (for dads and sons) and Princesses program (for dads and daughters). Now the YMCA hopes to expand into Durham.

The Durham YMCA had a small program, but it fizzled out years ago.

When the Triangle Y tried to start it up again about three years ago, only a couple of dads showed up to the meeting in downtown Durham. This time, the group is focusing its efforts on south Durham.

What: The program has all the trappings of many other organized kids programs. Vests, badges, campfires, charity work, even a necklace to mark participation. Dads and kids take on nicknames, often Native American-based.

But, from the time I was pregnant with my daughter, I've had people tell me that my husband needed to sign up as soon as she was old enough.

Dads talk about lots of individual time with their kids and play up the fact that this means their wives have some free time for themselves.

When: For dads who live in Durham, it's 7 p.m. Tuesday at Hope Valley Country Club, 3803 Dover Road. For dads who live in Wake County, it's 7 p.m. Sept. 9 at McKimmon Center at N.C. State University, 1101 Gorman St., Raleigh.

How: Dads will form "tribes" with six to nine other dads and begin setting up a fun schedule of activities with their children.

Who goes: Dads with kids in first and second grade can attend the meeting in Durham.

Dads with kids in first grade can attend the meeting in Raleigh.

No kids are allowed at these meetings. And no moms either.

Y-Guides and Princesses are for dads and kids in grades first through third grades. Starting in fourth grade, dads and kids can continue in the Trailblazers and Trailmates programs.

You do not need to be a member of the YMCA to participate.

Know before you go: Dues are $90 per pair for non-YMCA members and $65 per pair for YMCA members. It's $25 for each additional child in the program. There are programs to help families who cannot afford the dues.

For more information about the Guides and Princesses, go to www.arapahoe-nation.org or call 582-2266.

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