How To Speak The Language Of Connection

Your role in your kid's play

Hey, Ready To Dad Crew!

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In This Week’s Newsletter:

  • Quote of The Week - “You’ve grown into someone who would have protected you as a child. And that is the most powerful move you made.” - Unknown

  • Javaree Talks - Why play matters

  • In the News - Counteract instant gratification

  • Good on Social - Responding to play requests

  • Money Moves - Use Monarch to monitor your spending and your networth

JAVAREE TALKS 

Hey, Ready To Dad Crew!

Before I became a parent, I thought of play as just fun and something kids do to pass the time and be kids. But through training and watching my kids, I realized that play is not just about fun, it's the foundation of learning, emotional regulation, and connection.

When my son asked me to play superheroes, I used to see it as a distraction from all the “more important” things I had to do. But I started to learn and notice that he was working through his feelings, practicing problem-solving, and seeking connection through play. It was his way of inviting me into his world.

Why Play Matters

Kids don’t sit down and say, “I had a hard day.” Instead, they act it out through pretend play, roughhousing, or creative storytelling. When you join them, even for 10 minutes, you’re saying to them:

  • “I see you. I’m here.” – Strengthening emotional security and secure attachments

  • “Your world matters to me.” – Building trust and connection, safety

  • "I'm here to navigate this with you." – Building emotional resilience and trust.

How to Make Play Meaningful

  • Let them lead – Follow their ideas instead of directing the play.

  • Engage fully – Put the phone down and be fully present.

  • Use play to process emotions – If they’re struggling, act out scenarios to help them make sense of their feelings.

Even 10 minutes of focused playtime can deepen your bond and teach emotional intelligence. No fancy, loud, or flashy toys are required.

What’s one way you can join your child’s world of play today?

IN THE NEWS

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Parent Tech Action CoalitionA judgment-free newsletter + community helping families navigate screens.

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!

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.

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

HERE FOR YOU

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Thank you for sharing your time with me. Stay Ready To Dad, and have a fun week ahead!