Hey there! In this video, we’re going to chat about how to be more present as a father. Being present means truly focusing and engaging in the here and now, without being mentally absent or distracted. We all know that even when we’re physically with our children, we might not always be fully present. So, I’m here to give you some tips on how to be more present with real-life examples on how to implement them. My name is Jason Kreidman, founder of Dad University, and if you’re interested in learning more about our membership, which includes courses, videos, discussions, and more, visit DadUniversity.com for more information. Alright, let’s dive into the tips!

Tip number one: put your phone away. While it may seem obvious, the most straightforward way to eliminate distractions is by reducing or eliminating phone usage. Our phones are often the biggest culprits of stealing away quality time with our loved ones. So the next time you’re playing, reading, or spending time with your child, put your phone away or at the very least, put it on silent mode to avoid any notifications, beeps, or vibrations. Trust me, being present without any distractions will make a world of difference.

Tip number two: prioritize quality time. It’s important to remember that the quality of the time you spend with your child matters more than the quantity. You can prioritize quality time by putting it on your calendar in advance, just like you would with work appointments. Consider having dedicated family time each week, such as a family game night or a movie night, to establish a regular routine of quality time. Furthermore, you can plan regular one-on-one dates with your child, like going to the park every Saturday morning at 10 a.m. Kids love routines, and they’ll love spending time with you when you make them a priority.

What Does Being Present Mean?

Introduction

Being present as a father means more than just physically being there. It means being engaged, attentive, and actively participating in your child’s life. In this article, we will explore the concept of being present as a father, discuss its meaning, delve into its importance, and provide practical tips for being more present. By understanding and implementing these strategies, you can strengthen your bond with your child, create lasting memories, and promote their emotional well-being.

Meaning of being present

Being present refers to a state of focused and engaged presence in the here and now. It means being mentally and emotionally present, rather than being distracted or absent-minded. When you are present, you are fully attentive to your child and actively involved in their life.

Being engaged and attentive

Being engaged and attentive involves actively participating in your child’s activities, conversations, and daily routines. It means actively listening to them, empathizing with their thoughts and emotions, and providing support and guidance when needed. When you are engaged and attentive, you show your child that they are important and valued.

Actively participating in your child’s life

Being present as a father also means actively participating in your child’s life. This includes attending their school events, extracurricular activities, and spending quality time together. By actively participating, you create opportunities for connection, understanding, and shared experiences.

Importance of being present as a father

Being present as a father is essential for building a strong bond with your child, creating lasting memories, strengthening the relationship, and promoting their emotional well-being.

Building a strong bond with your child

When you are present, you create a foundation of trust, love, and understanding with your child. By actively engaging with them, you establish a secure attachment that forms the basis of their emotional development and future relationships.

Creating lasting memories

Being present allows you to create meaningful and lasting memories with your child. By participating in their activities, sharing experiences, and being emotionally available, you build a collection of cherished moments that your child will remember throughout their life.

Strengthening the relationship

Being present strengthens the bond and connection between you and your child. Your presence communicates care, support, and commitment, fostering a deep and unbreakable relationship built on mutual trust and understanding.

Promoting emotional well-being

When you are present, you provide a safe space for your child to express their emotions, ask questions, and seek guidance. Your active involvement in their life promotes their emotional well-being, helping them develop resilience, self-esteem, and a strong sense of self.

Tips for being more present

To be more present as a father, consider implementing the following tips:

Put your phone away

Reduce or eliminate distractions by putting your phone away when spending time with your child. By removing the temptation to constantly check notifications or engage with technology, you free up your attention and focus solely on your child.

Prioritize quality time

Quality time is more important than quantity. Set aside dedicated time for your child on your calendar and make it a priority. Whether it’s a weekly family game night or regular one-on-one dates, the consistency and intentionality of quality time create a strong foundation for being present.

Active listening

Show your child that you value their thoughts and feelings by actively listening to them. Practice active listening techniques, such as maintaining eye contact, asking follow-up questions, and providing validation for their experiences. Regular check-ins with your child provide an opportunity for focused conversation and connection.

Show affection

Physical touch and affection are powerful ways to strengthen the bond with your child. Hugs, kisses, holding hands, and other displays of affection create a sense of connection, love, and support. Remember to adapt your displays of affection as your child grows older, keeping them feeling loved and cherished.

Do something they enjoy

Engage in activities that your child enjoys, even if they may not be your personal preference. By putting their interests first and actively participating in their world of play, you show them that their happiness and enjoyment matter to you. This shared experience strengthens the bond and creates joyful memories.

Lead by example

Modeling positive behavior is an essential aspect of being present as a father. Set a positive example by demonstrating kindness, respectful communication, patience, and responsibility. Your actions speak louder than words, and your child will learn valuable life lessons by observing your behavior.

Conclusion

Being present as a father is more than just physically being there; it requires active engagement, attentiveness, and participation in your child’s life. By putting away distractions, prioritizing quality time, actively listening, showing affection, participating in their interests, and leading by example, you can strengthen your relationship with your child, create lasting memories, and positively impact their emotional well-being. Embrace the journey of becoming a more present and mindful dad, and enjoy the incredible rewards that come with it.