Move Slower, Connect Deeper

Making space for presence when the schedule says rush.

Author

Javaree Walker
June 29, 2025

Hey, Ready To Dad Crew!

Summer isn’t just a season; it’s a stretch. A stretch of longer days, shifting routines, and the ever-changing rhythm of family life. For working dads, this time of year can feel like a tug-of-war between staying present and staying productive. But summer also holds the chance to stretch emotionally: to stretch our patience, our imagination, and most importantly, our connection with our kids.

Each week this month, I’ll reflect on how to embrace the flexibility and fullness of this season, not just logistically but relationally and emotionally, with a special focus on strengthening our family bonds.

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In This Week’s Newsletter:

  • Quote of The Week - “It’s not about controlling your child’s behavior, it’s about creating the conditions where cooperation feels natural.”

  • Javaree Talks - How adding space and not speed can change your start to the day.

  • In the News - Tips for parents

  • Good on Social - A child psychologist shares another way to think about screentime

JAVAREE TALKS 

Let’s be honest, summer mornings aren’t always slow! For working parents, the season can bring more moving parts: new camp drop-offs, shifting routines, and kids with big morning energy.

But here’s the shift, a slow morning isn’t one with nothing to do. It’s a morning with space built in, a space that allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable start to the day.

Kids move at a different pace. Brushing teeth can take forever. Breakfast might be a full production. And in our house? My preschooler is deep in his “making cards for everyone” era, pausing to draw, cut, or host an impromptu party for his classmates before we’ve even left the kitchen.

These things take time. And they matter. So, instead of fighting the pace, we make room for it. Sometimes, that means more prep the night before. Sometimes, it means waking up a little earlier. But always, it means protecting the moments that matter, empowering you to shape your morning routine in a way that works for your family.

Try this: Once or twice a week, resist the urge to check your phone as soon as you wake up. Let your presence lead the way. Kids feel grounded and respond with more calmness and connection.

Why it matters: When kids feel unrushed, they feel safe. And when you feel grounded, the whole house moves in rhythm. A little extra time can turn morning chaos into connection, and that’s the kind of productivity that lasts all day, inspiring you to create a more peaceful and connected start to your day.

IN THE NEWS

Use the '25 1-minute parenting rule' to get your kids to open up

When your child is having a hard time expressing emotions, child psychologist J. Timothy Davis suggests brief chats over time instead of one long conversation.

www.cnbc.com/2025/06/26/use-the-25-1-minute-parenting-rule-to-get-your-kids-to-open-up.html

I've studied over 200 kids ' parents who have an easy time getting their children to listen, never use these 5 'toxic' phrases

Child psychologist Reem Raouda identified five phrases that help kids listen without throwing a tantrum. It's language that makes "children want to cooperate," she says.

www.cnbc.com/2025/06/22/ive-studied-over-200-kids-phrases-parents-should-use-to-get-children-to-listen.html

Only about 4% of U.S. pet owners have pet insurance

Pet care costs are rising, yet not enough people are doing something about it. Pet insurance can significantly offset rising costs – all for as low as $10 a month. Want to join the 4% club?

GOOD ON SOCIAL

MONEY MOVES

One of the most important things a dad can do for a family is take control of his finances. Tracking your income, spending, and investments provides peace of mind and relief, setting a strong foundation for your family’s future.

I use Monarch to stay on top of everything. It’s a game-changer for organizing finances, budgeting, and long-term planning. It’s empowered me to create a system that works for my family, and I highly recommend it.

💡 Special offer for my readers: Use my code HERE for 1 free month of Monarch.💡 (Note: I may receive a commission if you join through my link—thanks for supporting the newsletter!)

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!

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