My father’s day was epic. I have 4 kids and they are pretty young so this holiday gets all my feels going.
I listen to Christian Radio as I drive around town most days and yesterday there was a consistent sound bit that kept replaying – something like “Happy Father’s Day, whether this day is good for you or brings up bad memories, you have a God in heaven that loves you.”
So, I love that statement: Yes, God is in heaven and loves me, and he is the father to the fatherless (or fatherlite?).
And I hate that statement: Maybe Father’s Day conjures bad memories? We never have that notion on Mother’s Day, 4th of July, even memorial day is the official beginning of Pool / BBQ Season despite being a holiday celebrating fallen soldiers.
Well the concept of a “Father Wound” is a REAL THING. I couldn’t even narrow this recommendation down to one book… this is a link to a LIST OF BOOKS about healing the father wound.
How terrible is that.
Well that has to change. I believe that this generation will be the one to flip the switch on poor fathering.
Some Quick Tips to improve your fathering today:
- Put your phone in a drawer when you arrive home, until the children go to sleep
- Eat at least one meal a day with your entire family – BONUS – use this to foster conversations
- Schedule one on one time with each child once per week
- Schedule a date night with your wife at least 2 times a month.
- Get involved at the children’s school. Car Line drop off is an easy way. Be present to show them education is important
- Pay your bills
- Become Tech Savvier and implement a reasonable tech rules and expectations plan at home
- Set a reasonable range of arrival home from work (i.e. between 5:30 and 6:00 pm). Don’t deviate unless its a pre-planned event that you committed to at least a week in advance (no surprises)
- share the burden of household duties equitably with your wife
- actively compliment and praise your wife in front of the children
There are many many more ways to be a great dad. I am hoping these 10 tips can help you be a better dad. If you know of a dad that might needs these tips, please forward this link to them.