The media is a buzzin with news that former American Idol finalist and UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Clay Aiken just became a new daddy to son Parker Foster Aiken (6 lbs. 2 ounces).

Clay is co founder of the Bubel-Aiken Foundation, which works to support inclusion for those with special needs worldwide (http://www.bubelaiken.org/). He planned to become a special education teacher before successfully auditioning for American Idol. The rest is history.

I was fortunate to interview Diane Bubel (co founder with Clay of BAF) for my book. She spoke highly of Clay and his impressive work with her son, Michael, who has autism. My guess is that the singer with a bachelors degree in special education from UNC-Charlotte will make a terrific dad. You can read the complete Bubel interview in my book, which you can order at amazon.com by clicking on the book cover to the left of this blog.

Congratulations, Clay!

I’m thinking that maybe all those baby blankets/toys you Claymates will now be sending Clay should instead go to charity in honor of Parker! Afterall, how many blankets and toys can one young man use? Just think of all the kids, including those with special needs, you can help keep warm and entertained with your enthusiastic efforts! You guys make things happen.

I caught the cute little guy pictured above enjoying his vacation on Mackinac Island! Clay Aiken has much to look forward to.

Little Buddhas rock!


JudyWinter.com
Breakthrough Parenting for Children with Special Needs: Raising the Bar of Expectations
MySpace.com/judy_winter