Join us as we take a break from our normal format and dig into being a better father. This is something that has been on our mind since we have 10 kids represented in the 3 dads on our podcast! We will be skipping the normal three segments (What's on your mind, top 3, and a good word) and we will be talking about traits and characteristics of being a good father. We are using this article 23 Qualities of a Good Father - Traits & Characteristics written by Jeff Campbell from newmiddleclassdad.com. The plan is to cover about 3 qualities per episode. Since the ages of our kids are spread between 20 and 5, we'll have some insight that will help all of our listeners!

We are their parents, not their friends.

That doesn’t mean we don’t love them unconditionally. And it doesn’t mean we don’t take an interest in their interests.

But at the end of the day, our most important job is to keep them safe and educate them so they can go on to be productive people in society.

Kids WANT structure.

They want guidelines and they crave the safety and security of knowing the boundaries.

Sure as they enter their teen years (or heck, sometimes their 3’s) they may test those boundaries but don’t ever doubt the need to set clear rules and boundaries.

As with #10, it’s important that kids clearly know what’s expected of them. No one likes living with vague.

When we are clear (as in, “when you come home from school today I want you to clean your room before you go play and I want to see it when you’re done”) our kids know EXACTLY what they need to do.

Nothing feels better than knowing exactly what I need to do.

But within reason, give our kids the end goal and maybe a time frame but allow them the freedom to map out how they get there.

You won’t be there to micromanage their whole life, so letting them explore now sets them up for success later.

Dads are traditionally known for their role as a protector of the family.

There are many ways to protect your kids beyond the physical;

• Having life insurance (click to read my best tips) for yourself
• Saving for kid’s college (click to read my guide)
• Making sure you have an emergency fund (click to read my article) in place for unexpected large expenses

187