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!

There are moments as a dad when I feel the urge to fix things.

It doesn’t happen all the time, but it does come up. If something isn’t working, I usually try to fix it. When there’s a problem, I want to help find a solution. If emotions run high, I try to explain what’s happening.

In those moments, it feels like I’m being helpful.

But I’ve started to notice that sometimes I move too fast.

The other day, after school, my son started telling me about something that happened. I thought I knew where he was going, so I offered a solution before he finished. I thought I was helping.

The conversation shut down right away.

He went quiet, and the mood shifted. I realized I hadn’t just interrupted him; I had taken away his chance to feel heard.

So I paused and said, “Keep going.”

That moment stuck with me.

Because what he needed wasn’t a solution. He needed space.

I’m still working on this. Sometimes I notice myself jumping in too quickly. I’m learning that listening a bit longer, even when it’s tough, really matters.

Giving that extra space shows respect. It tells our kids their thoughts matter and deserve to be heard, even if we think we already understand.

It also helps us see the full picture before stepping in.

Kids are more likely to open up when they feel listened to. If we jump in with corrections too soon, they might shut down, not t because they don’t trust us, but because they don’t feel truly heard.

It reminds me that I don’t always have to fix things right away. Sometimes, I just need to stay present a little longer.

That’s where connection grows.

Listening carefully is more important than rushing to fix things.

Listening carefully is more important than rushing to fix things.

Next time you want to jump in with an answer, try this approach instead:

Take a moment before you reply.
Let your child finish speaking, even if you think you already know what they’ll say.

Encourage them to share more.
Saying something like “Keep going” or “I’m listening” gives them space without making them feel pressured.

Wait before offering your solution.
Make sure they feel heard first. You can always give advice later.

When kids feel heard, they open up more. And when they open up, we’re able to support them in a way that actually lands.

Sometimes, the most helpful thing we can give isn’t an answer, it’s our attention.

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!

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

We help you:

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

Please reply to this email to book a free consultation when you're ready to work with me!

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.