Modern dads are around their kids much more than men were a generation or two ago. We see their struggles more and have opportunities to fix them, but should we? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about supporting our kids without fighting all their battles. 

Why This Matters
One of the best ways we can support our kids is to stand beside them as they fight their own battles. 

Key Takeaways

·      Modern dads are more involved: Research shows dads now spend 3–4x more time with our kids than men did in the 1970s. 

·      But more involved can become “too” involved: More time gave rise to helicopter, lawn mower, bulldozer, and drone parents. 

·      Kids will always need support: It will change during every stage, but dads will always play a role in their kids’ lives. 

Action Steps for Dads

1. Know When To Step In

2. Step In vs. Step Back

3. Really Listen. 

4. Helping Them Process.

5. Be Their Biggest Fan.

6. Letting Them Struggle.

Important Episode Timestamps

00:00 – 00:43 | Parenting Has Changed Drastically
00:43 – 02:12 | Helicopter, Lawnmower & Bulldozer Parents
02:12 – 03:38 | The Dawn of the “Drone Parent”
03:38 – 07:03 | Tracking, Tech, and Emotional Helicoptering
07:03 – 09:12 | Fixing vs. Helping: When Parents Do Too Much
09:12 – 12:27 | The Big Question: Support or Interfere?
12:27 – 16:40 | Knowing When to Step In: Safety, Severity & Seasons
16:40 – 23:03 | Helping Kids Process Challenges Without Taking Over
23:03 – 28:32 | Pro Move of the Week
This week, when you are tempted to jump in, pause and see if your kid can do it on their own. 

More Resources:

Episode 88 – Could Your Son Be Struggling in Silence?

Episode 95 – What Challenges is Generation Alpha Facing?

 3 Reasons Your Child Needs to Struggle

5 Areas Where Your Teen Needs to Struggle

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Ted Lowe on LinkedIn

Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn

BJ Foster on LinkedIn

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