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10 TIPS FOR DADS (AND MOMS)

With Father’s Day approaching, I did some soul-searching and interviewing with my children to help me be a better Dad.  Here are the top 10 things I found on my list.

1. SPEND TIME TOGETHER.  Nothing tops the chart than spending time with your children.   Remember, quality time comes out of quantity time.  Treat your time with your children as you’d safe-guard an important business appointment.  It’s not a luxury; it’s a necessity.  Interact with your child in the things they’re interested in.  Date your child and let them take charge of the time.  Spend one-on-one time with each child.

2. TOUCH FREQUENTLY.  There’s a miracle in touching someone.  Your children crave for your touch.  Cuddle, hug and touch affectionately.  If they don’t get it from you, they’ll look for it somewhere else.

3. BE AN INTENT LISTENER.  If you really want to know what’s going on with your child, listen to him/her talk.  Jesus said, out of the abundance of their hearts they’ll speak.  Learn the art of listening.  Listen without interruption or correction.  This is not your time to preach!  I often ask my children, “How can I be a better Dad?”  You’ll be surprised what they’ll tell you.  Be that!

4. TEACH BY EXAMPLE.  No matter how old we get everybody needs a coach and a mentor.  The greatest sermon you can ever preach to your child is to set a good example.  They’re like sponges soaking up everything they see you do. 

5. HAVE A RELAXED, EASY GOING ATTITUDE.  Nothing is more destructive than to live in a house full of strife.  Learn to create a peaceful atmosphere by not sweating the small stuff. 

6. APPROVE, ADMONISH AND SYMPATHIZE.  Nothing means more to a child than the father’s WORDS OF APPROVAL.  Even Jesus waited until He was approved of His Father.  Let “yes” be your first response.  (You can always add other conditions to your agreement.  When correcting, coach with TENDER WORDS and never punish in anger.  When they talk about their hurt, disappointment or anger, try to feel their pain and don’t make light of it.  Instead of criticizing, learn to “catch them doing something right.”  Thank and appreciate lavishly.  Show honor and you’ll reap honor back.

7. WORK TOGETHER.  Do household chores and errands together.  Give them life skill by involving them in whatever you’re into.  Take them to work with you and let them see what a working father looks like.  Teach them the power of saving/investing, giving and owning.  Teach them to serve.

8. INVEST IN GOOD RELATIONSHIPS.  Have personal and family friends your children can relate to.  Teach them how to get along with others, how to resolve conflict and the balance between a giver and a taker.  Children will learn to relate to others the way they see you relate to others.  Be a lover of peace.

9. RESPECT YOUR BODY.  Let your body be the temple of the Holy Spirit.  Show a good balance between work, exercise, food and sleep.  Work hard, play hard.

10. BE SPIRITUAL.  Be the spiritual leader of your household.  Kids will follow you when they see you reading the Bible, going to church and being involved in missions.  Have a daily family devotion.  Acknowledge and involve God in everyday life and situations.  You’re the picture of God personified!

Grace be with you and Happy Father’s Day!

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