Thank you for whatever part of this you read. I am a dad of 3 small kids, a husband, I have a full time job, a garden with weeds, a dog, and a true desire to do this whole dad thing better. This is not a competition but I do think we all need to win in the relationship with our kids now so that they want to have one with us later. We are all fighting our own fight with kids that are unique. I want to try to enjoy this time but I know that is not just going to happen. TV, AI, bad friends and phones are coming for our kids. We have to get to them first and show them where the fun really is happening. It’s outside, it’s in the dirt, it’s on the lake, it’s at a park and it is with your dad (and mom too, sometimes). This newsletter is my attempt every week to share what I am trying and to push myself to build intentional relationships with my kids by just doing things together. Good luck to you dad, I know it is going to be amazing!

Make This: Chunky Monkey Yogurt Snacks

What are you going to do this summer?

Try this: Get some brightly colored paper and cut it into strip. Work with your kids on writing down 100 things to do this summer. Attach all your ideas to the wall in your kitchen or anywhere tape is ok. Take them on one at a time and take them down off the wall. Make sure to take a picture with strip and activity to document your summer. Activites could include: Run a mile, make cookies, see a movie, build a fort. You choose, coming up with them with your kids will be one of the best parts. Go do it dad!

We are always talking to our kids and they are mostly not listening. I have realized saying things like “Be careful” and “Don’t run around the pool” are more me just talking to myself. But what matters is what we say in both normal and critical moments for them to know we are here and we are paying attention. I want you to try a couple phrases this week when you have their attention. Don’t force it but make it something you say to your kids.

“I’m really glad we are doing this together.”

“I’m proud to be your dad.”

I have had some rough moments over the last few weeks and so saying these things in a kind and intentional way can rebuild that connection that we are all after. These are building phrases that in 20 years we want our kids to remember us having said them because we said them so often. Remember it is also our job too to be corny and overly sentimental. We certainly don’t want to disappoint.

Check this out: Things kids need to hear

This newsletter is not professional in nature but intended to be real things to try. They won’t all work but this is a process and I’d love for you to join me on the way. Thanks for reading and we hope to see you next week.

Send me a note or your best dad joke @ [email protected]