The other day we went to the pool as a whole family for one of the first times here in the artic tundra of Michigan. It just warm enough. When it comes to the pool I always forget something. Goggles, snacks, wipes, dry clothes. That day was a new high (or low) depending on how you see it since I went to the pool and didn’t have snacks or drinks or a towel for me. My point is I was fine. We start to think we need all these things to be ok and in the process we are showing our kids that we need all these things to be ok. We need our coffee, our phone, or adult beverage. Believe me there is a case for all of those but not all the time. You will live and you actually might loosen the hold that somethings have on all of us and that is a powerful lesson for anyone to learn.

Try this: Ask your kids, What Do Kids Need?

Ice cream? More screen time? A puppy?

After the obvious answers, keep going.

What helps you have a good day?

What makes you feel loved?

Who do you like spending time with?

What would make this summer awesome?

The answers might surprise you.

Most kids don't need nearly as much stuff as we think they do. They need people. They need connection. They need encouragement. They need someone who believes in them. That someone is you Dad.

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Don't correct their answer.

Don't explain yours.

Just listen.

You might hear something you weren't expecting.

And while you're at it, answer the question yourself.

Because the things we really need are usually a lot simpler than the things we're chasing.

Cook This: “Build your own” anything

This idea is one that will get your kids engaged in the process of food production. They are much more likely to eat it if they made it. Taco bars, Burrito bowls, pizzas, or rice bowls are a great place to start. Put the toppings in bowls and turn them loose.

Summer is the time to have some fun. Fun can be simple and doesn’t require a big plan.

Sometimes they just need someone willing to be a little silly.

Here's one to try.

Let your kids create a challenge for you.

Maybe it's shooting baskets.

Maybe it's a race.

Maybe it's building something.

Maybe it's balancing on one foot while singing a song.

Whatever it is, take it seriously and at least act like you are trying.

Kids love watching adults play.

Even more, they love watching adults be willing to look a little ridiculous.

Those are the moments they remember.

And honestly, they're usually pretty fun for us too.

If you haven’t looked at a map in 10 years and don’t really know how to get anywhere anymore, this should be right up your alley. First thing is to find one, ask your mom or grandma. Second place is always the library. NO ONE USES THESE THINGS BUT THEY EXIST AMOUNGST US. Use this giant book of maps to chart your course somewhere fun this summer. Let your kid be the guide.

Check this out: How to use a map

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]