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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As a dad, I’ve often felt the pressure to make every summer count. Living in a place with long winters, like me, there’s this urge to pack in all the fun while you can. Monster truck shows, sporting events, street festivals, car races, there’s no shortage of things to do. But I’ve also learned that sometimes, the best plan is no plan at all.

And those things can be great. But sometimes, the best plan is no plan at all. I recall one summer when I had all these carefully planned activities for my son. But you know what they enjoyed the most? The impromptu running around with bubbles in the park. Bubbles that were priced at around $10 on Amazon. It was then that I realized, sometimes, the best plan is no plan at all; you don’t need to spend a lot to achieve it.

It’s the sheer joy of letting your kids run through a sprinkler in the park, your yard, or an impromptu chalk drawing session. It’s the delight of allowing your child to lead a pretend game, such as ‘pirates on a treasure hunt’ or ‘superheroes saving the world,’ instead of managing the next transition. It’s about choosing to stay in the moment, taking in every second, rather than checking your phone or watching the clock. This unstructured play brings a unique joy that structured activities can’t replicate.

It’s about saying a resounding ‘yes’ to their world, even when it doesn’t fit perfectly into ours.

Why

In a summer full of options, it’s natural to want to maximize every moment. But kids don’t need packed calendars to thrive. They need a connection. They need co-regulation. They need to feel that we’re with them, not just shuttling them from place to place. And remember, these moments of unstructured play are not just about the present; they’re also about laying the foundation for your child’s future emotional and social development. Research shows that unstructured play fosters creativity, problem-solving skills, and emotional resilience, all of which are crucial for your child’s future success. By choosing unstructured play, you’re not only creating fun memories, but you’re also shaping a successful future for your child.

Conscious parenting reminds us that play isn’t just a way to pass the time; it’s a vital part of our children’s development. It’s how children process their emotions, express themselves, and build trust with us. When we step into their world, we say, “You matter. I see you!”

Dr. Becky Kennedy calls this seeing “good inside.” We honor their goodness not through perfection but through presence. And that presence builds emotional safety.

So, yes, enjoy what summer has to offer. But don’t forget that the magic often lives in the margins. A few quiet minutes. An invitation to play. A connection is made without a ticket or a timeline.

So, let summer come to you. And let your child know you’re right there with them, ready to embrace the joy of the unplanned. Because in these unstructured moments, the real magic of summer unfolds. Remember, it’s not about planning every moment; it’s about being present in the moments that matter.

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.

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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!

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