dad duty

7 Reasons to let Dad parent his way

In Kids by Product ScoutLeave a Comment

Two years ago, approximately 2 kids and 5 year into my parenting journey, it finally clicked for me. After a girl’s weekend away on Cape Cod, I realized that me letting go and allowing my husband to parent his own way while I was gone was really important for all of us. My boys might not have been wearing the outfit I would chose or eating the meals I envisioned, but they connected and bonded with their dad more than ever. Here are 7 reasons why I’m a believer in letting dad do things his way when he’s on duty.

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Strengthen their bond

The way our family operates, my kids spend a lot of time with me. Whether I’m shuttling them to activities, making them breakfast, or volunteering in their schools, we are together a lot. With my husband’s crazy work schedule, he inevitably doesn’t get as much time with the boys. During the height of his season, he can even go a couple days without seeing them. He works hard to make the most of his time, and the time he gets alone with them is special. Especially as the boys get older, I’m seeing the connection and bonding over shared interests and fun experiences they do together.

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Kids will learn new skills

I am often reminded through my kids why my husband and I are a good match. He has skills and traits that balance what I don’t. It balances us out, and the kids really benefit. When kids have time alone with Dad, they inevitably learn/develop new skills. In our house that has meant everything from casting a fishing rod to a strong work ethic and being more independent.

Build Dad’s parenting confidence

There’s really nothing more frustrating as a parent than being constantly critiqued. Putting your trust in your partner and giving them the space they need to do it their way is so important for them, for your relationship and for the whole family.

He’ll be more likely to do solo duty again

From my own personal experience, the best way to get another girls’ weekend in the books is to give Dad the room to parent his way — more kudos and less critique. If everyone survived the time happy and healthy, it’s a win for everyone.

Force mom to take a step back

I don’t know about you, but I stink at taking a back seat. I tend to be a control freak, but I’ve learned through trial and error that taking a step back can be best for everyone. When I leave for a period of time, I walk a fine line between leaving enough details, especially regarding scheduling, and not micromanaging. It’s good for me to see that my family can manage just fine without me, and it’s so good for them to be independent.

dad2They will all have fun

Really they will have a blast. Whether we’re talking hours or days, it’s important for Dad to have his uninterrupted time with the kiddos. In our house that means tons of time outside, lots of exploring, adventuring, fishing, hockey and even watching classic movies.

He will appreciate you even more

Of course your partner appreciates you already, but I guarantee he’ll have a new view of all you do. Pretty sure the appreciation will be reciprocal seeing the kids thriving under his care.

What other great reasons would you add to the list?

This post was contributed by Rebecca Spear as part of Savvy Sassy Moms Product Scouts. You can find more from Rebecca on her blog, Mainley Mama.

Meet the Author | Product Scout


Savvy Sassy Moms Product Scouts have been hand selected by our editors to bring you the latest and greatest products that make your life a little easer and a lot more stylish! Our product scouts have a variety of children from newborn to age 10 and are on the ground (literally) using and testing these products. Our reviews are honest and the opinions of the scouts are always their own.

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