Encouraging Better Listening With Playfulness and Patience

Hey, Ready To Dad Crew!

Thanks for joining us. You could be reading any newsletter in the world, but you are on this journey with Ready To Dad, and your support is greatly appreciated!

We’ve been reaching more people because you shared Ready to Dad with your friends and family!

In This Week’s Newsletter:

• Quote of The Week - “Communication is the response you get” - Tony Robbins

• Javaree Talks - Non-violent communication

• Good On Social - Navigating gentle parenting

• In The News - Child development perspective

• Money Moves - Starting the money conversation

• Dad Joke Of The Week - Snowman problems

JAVAREE TALKS 

It can be incredibly frustrating when your child doesn’t seem to listen. Trust me, I’ve been there! It’s easy to fall into patterns of repeating yourself, raising your voice, or giving up and doing things yourself. But these responses don’t foster cooperation. Instead, let’s focus on connection and invite children into the conversation with playful and empathetic strategies.

For instance, here is what I often say to my son when he needs to clean up his toys. “I know you’re a great listener. Let’s try that again. What do you need to remember about keeping your play area tidy?”

Sometimes, that may not work, and the key is to try a different approach to make your request.

Here are some playful and practical phrases to keep in your bag:

• “What do you need to remember?”

• “I know you’re a great listener—let’s try that again.”

• “Tell me what comes next.”

• “Can you repeat what I just said?”

• “Let’s see if your ears are on—hold still for a quick ear check!”

• “I’ll whisper it—let’s see if you can catch what I say!”

• “I know you’ve got this!”

Why Playful Listening Matters

Listening and following instructions are not innate abilities. They are skills that are learned through patient guidance and practice. When we approach listening with curiosity and fun, we move away from power struggles and toward cooperation. By modeling calmness and creativity, we show our kids how to engage without fear of punishment.

Remember, listening isn’t always perfect—and neither is parenting. There will be moments when your child still doesn’t respond how you hope. In these moments, please take a deep breath, reflect on their needs, and try again with empathy. It’s important to note that these strategies may not work immediately, and your child might need some time to adjust. Recognizing that they’re learning and growing (just like we are) creates more space for connection. Listening becomes less about control and more about building trust and strengthening the bond between you and your child.

GOOD ON SOCIAL

IN THE NEWS

MONEY MOVES

DAD JOKE OF THE WEEK

Why didn’t the snowman argue?

.

.

.

.

Because he wanted to let it slide!

Q & A CORNER

Reply directly to this email with your question, or use this quick form to submit anonymously. Whether it’s about family routines, connecting with your kids, or managing stress, I’m here to help!

Let’s tackle parenting together, one question at a time!

GET COACHED

Ready To Dad offers coaching services explicitly tailored for dads with young children.

We help you:

• Discover your core parenting values.

• Learn personalized strategies for growth as a parent.

• Build and maintain a deep connection with your child.

• Establish a self-care and personal growth routine.

We aim to help you feel more fulfilled and confident in your parenting journey.

Reply to this email to book a free consultation if you're ready to work with me!

HERE FOR YOU

If there are specific topics you’d like to see in an upcoming RTD newsletter, reply to this email with your suggestions, and we’ll do our best to include them in future editions.

Did a friend forward this email to you? Subscribe here to ensure you don’t miss future insights and updates.