8 Steps to Better Listening for Dads

8 Steps to Better Listening for Dads

When a dad says he wants better communication with his kids, he shouldn’t just jump in and start talking. The first thing he needs to do—and do well—is listen. Here are eight ideas to practice with your children every day. 1. Face your child squarely. This says, “I’m...
7 “Simple” Ways to Handle Conflict (and Prepare Kids for Life)

7 “Simple” Ways to Handle Conflict (and Prepare Kids for Life)

  How well do you handle conflict, dad? When faced with tense situations, many guys withdraw or avoid confrontations. Some do the opposite—they lose control or explode, and do damage to those around them. You might not think about this a lot, but handling conflict is...
A 5th Grader Describes 3 Ways to Be a Better Dad

A 5th Grader Describes 3 Ways to Be a Better Dad

  We get to read a lot of priceless comments about dads written by kids as part of our Father of the Year Essay Contests, and here’s an example from a 5th grader named Brennan. He’ll probably make you laugh, but you’ll also be challenged to be a better dad: When...
One Question that Can Help You Be a Better Dad

One Question that Can Help You Be a Better Dad

Our annual essay contest always brings out some amazing thoughts from kids. Sometimes the essays make you laugh out loud; sometimes they break your heart. And quite often you get a nugget or two about how to be a better dad. This week is about one of those: The essay...
Solve the Communication Puzzle with Your Son

Solve the Communication Puzzle with Your Son

Think about the last conversation you had with your child. Did you walk away feeling closer to him, or did it raise your blood pressure by a few points? Was your child smiling, or looking for something else to do? Or was he rolling his eyes? For every dad, good...