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5 simple ways to show your kids affection each day

October 2, 2013 by GreatDad Writers Leave a Comment

Sometimes the hardest part of being a dad is getting the little things right. Fatherhood means taking responsibility for your children's feelings as well as their safety, education and putting food on the table. That means saying "I love you and I care" even if you don't use those exact words each time. Consider these five simple ways to show affection each day.

1. Tell them "good job!"
Whether they scored a goal in a soccer game, passed a quiz, finished their chores or beat a video game level, let them know you're proud of their efforts.

2. Ask about their hobbies
Sure, you don't know what Pokemon is and you couldn't care less about plastic jewelry, but showing curiosity for your kids' hobbies gives their activities meaning and demonstrates your interest in them.

3. Leave notes
When packing a lunch or before heading on a business trip, leave a few post-its with heartfelt messages around for your kids to find.

4. Read to them
Reading is a wonderful way to spend time with your kids. It's educational and spurs a wide variety of discussions. In fact, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, parents should start reading to their kids around 6 months of age.

5. Give them hug
Sometimes, hugs speak louder than words. 

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Great Dad Talks is a series of conversations with experts on all aspects of the family adventure. With the perspective that “dads don’t always think like moms,” our mission is to support dad voices and our slightly different approaches to parenting. We’ll try to find solutions to every day challenges like getting kids off the couch and making STEM classes available for both boys and girls. But we’ll also tackle bigger issues when they come. The one main theme will be to support dads in the most important role of their lives that of being a great dad. Connect with us at greatdad.com and watch the video version of these podcasts at YouTube.com/greatdadnews

145. Understanding Children’s Emotional Needs with Dr. David Marcus
byPaul Banas

Today we delve into the complexities of fatherhood with David Marcus, Ph.D., an expert with over forty years of experience working with families and children. In this enlightening conversation, we explore the essential components of communicating with your child, focusing on the development of a common emotional language. Learn about the four assumptions of emotionality that parents often make and discover strategies to foster a safe and open environment for meaningful conversations at any age.

Check out Dr. Marcus’ website at parentrx.org

Visit these links and embark on the path to becoming the best parent you can be:

– GreatDad.com/coaching 

– GreatDad.com/pq 

– Gratitude course: bit.ly/3NMLDNC  

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