Men who were problem-solving machines in finance have been laid off, and are now forced to do "family" activities. Silver lining: finally some dudes with real smarts to clean up these "PTA meetings" and shit!

Sure, it's a blow to a guy's ego to go from being a big shot at a Fortune 500 company to just another Mr. Mom. But at least the Mrs. Moms now have some men around whip the Westchester kiddie world into business shape:

The new prevalence of fathers around town is bittersweet for mothers, teachers and others. On the one hand, the PTA can use all the help it can get from men with financial expertise at a time when the proposed school budget is under enormous pressure.

...but on the other hand, go make me a sandwich! Need more proof of an upside here? Imagine how moms do things with the kids: cuddly, all out of order. Now, witness a laid off exec dad in serious family mode:

He laid out the children's 4 p.m. snack of dried crispy apples and Goldfish crackers.

His wife leaves at 8:30 a.m. and returns around 6:30 p.m., so Mr. Emery typically makes dinner for the children - that night, tofu with broccoli and macaroni and cheese.

But first he organized one of their favorite games, "Tickle Monster," chasing the children until he catches one and tickles unmercifully. "O.K., guys, if we're going to do this tickle thing you gotta have some shoes on your feet," he said.

It's not just a Tickle Monster game; it's an opportunity to learn about foot hygiene. Always thinking. Always teaching. Always progressing towards competitive excellence. I think these guys are gonna be just fine.
[NYT]