By now you’ve heard all the classic dad jokes…but what happens when the heckling jokester (who most of us call Dad) wants to have a serious family conversation with their kids? Your kids might be thinking “Either I’m in trouble, or something is wrong!”
Or maybe for dads, they use jokes as a way to connect with their kids—which is a great thing, but what do you do when you feel awkward bringing up difficult conversations with your kids?
For most moms, it seems like they’re always the ones having serious conversations with their kids and Mom is keeping Dad in the loop when they’re lying in bed wrapping up for the day. Each day is like an episode of Keeping Up With the Joneses, but Dad is the only daily subscriber.
Legado Family is all about facilitating those uncomfortable conversations and creating connections within your family, even for the awkward dad.
Here are some tips for setting the stage for the awkwardest of dads. (And, moms, these will also apply to you!)
Location is Key!
- Have an uncomfortable conversation in a positive location. We recommend an activity, as studies have shown that kids open up when they’re having fun. No point in nagging them about video games—get your own controller and join in! You’ll be amazed how much you learn from your kiddo by getting interested in something they’re into. Video games, sports, car modifications, animation, selling Jordans—passions are the keys to our kids and to communicating with them.
Be Positive
No one likes a negative Naggy Nelly! I don’t think we need to explain this one much more. The key is to listen. Simply listen, and seek the need to understand before feeling the need to be understood. Your kids will appreciate it more than you know.
Make the Time for Family Conversations
- Parents are busier than heck. Your kids are going to need you at the most inconvenient times, but that’s better than them not needing you at all. Appreciate it now, because if you don’t, they aren’t going to need you in the future.
And don’t forget, amazing things (especially growth) come from difficult conversations.
Looking for some questions to ask your kiddos to spark up a great conversation? Check out the Legado Family Conversation Cards.
