We’ve all heard the old saying, “Silence is golden.” And sometimes, it absolutely is. But when Dad doesn’t know what to say or do, how does that impact his kids? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about dads being distracted, dumbfounded, and disengaged. 

Why This Matters

Silent dads are distant dads, and kids don’t need distance. They thrive on connection. 

3 Kinds of Dad Silence

1. Distracted Dad 
This happens when dads are physically present but mentally absent. 

2. Dumbfounded Dad 
This happens when dads get totally stumped or confused by something their kid does. 

3. Disengaged Dad
This dad might take care of the essentials, but he’s usually not invested in his kids’ daily life. 

Action Steps for Each Dad

If you’re prone to silence, follow these steps:

For the Distracted Dad:

1.    Put down the device

2.    Make eye contact

3.    Repeat back what they said

4.    Schedule "connection time"

For the Dumbfounded Dad:

1.    Embrace "I don't know"

For the Disengaged Dad:
1.    Acknowledge your state

2.    Ask open-ended questions

3.    Use "I" statements for feelings

Important Episode Timestamps

00:19 – 02:26 | Was Your Dad Talkative or Quiet?
02:26 – 03:21 | The Problem of Dad Silence
03:21 – 04:59 | Everyday Distractions
05:00 – 06:36 | The Distracted Dad
06:36 – 08:07 | The Fallout of Distraction
08:07 – 13:25 | The Dumbfounded Dad
13:25 – 16:12 | The Power of Saying ‘I Don’t Know’
16:12 – 17:30 | The Disengaged Dad
17:50 – 22:41 | Action Steps for Each Dad Type
23:00 – End | Pro Move of the Week

All Pro Dad Resources:

7 Ways to Instantly Improve Your Relationship With Your Kids 

5 Dangers of Distracted Parenting

The Secret Wish of Every Teenager

3 Reasons You Need to Be the Calmest Person in the Room

We love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!

Connect with Us:

Ted Lowe on LinkedIn

Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn

BJ Foster on LinkedIn

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

Get All Pro Dad merch!

EXTRAS:

Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter)

Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day.
Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox.

This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com.

Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store.

Get great content for moms at iMOM.com