10 Parenting Ideas You (Probably) Never Thought Of

True story: An All Pro Dad we know was at work one day when his wife walked in, holding their infant first-born, tears streaming down her face. She handed him the bawling child, said “I’ve had it!”, and walked out. He didn’t know if she’d gone home, gone somewhere else, or left the state.

 They both arrived home around the same time.

 “He wouldn’t stop crying all afternoon,” she said. “I suddenly realized that I couldn’t just take him back to Sears. That’s when I thought of you...”

 We have these moments many times while we’re raising our kids. We lose our minds, lose our imagination, and we can’t think of anything original to do.

 Here are a few novel ideas, “10 Parenting Ideas You (probably) Never Thought Of.” They were conjured up by dads who were probably not under stress at the time. We believe they might help.

1. Keep it simple so you can be consistent:

   We tend to over-do the rule making. Keep the rules to a number you can actually enforce. That way you will be consistent and the kids will know what to expect. Plus, you won’t nag all the time!

2. Join a support group:

   We’re not talking about a “12-Step” program for dads (although it’s not such a bad idea), but more of a support and encouragement of other dads in the same boat. Our All Pro Dad’s Day program is perfect for this.

3. Ramp up the routine and the predictability:

   Children thrive on predictability. When they know what to expect (and you know what to expect), a lot of the stress evaporates.

4. Have kids take turns being “in charge” of chore day (they make assignments, you have to work too):

   Seriously, what’s a couple of hours with the shoe on the other foot? You’ll learn something, they’ll learn something; it’s a win-win.

5. Try “family game night” (and play by the rules):

   Again, make this routine. Board games and card games help reinforce the idea that “there’s a bigger plan.” Everyone’s on the same page; problem solving skills are enhanced. It sounds “old school,” we know, but there’s a lot in “old school” we could all use right about now.

6. Apologize when you’re wrong:

   As parents, we should constantly model appropriate behavior and interaction. It’s called family leadership. When we’re wrong (and, odds are, it’s going to happen on a fairly regular basis), suck it up, eat humble pie, and move forward. They may even go to school on you, dad.

7. Let kids help make the rules:

   A family is not a democracy. But, a family is a place where we teach, we all learn, and problem solving is practiced. Studies clearly demonstrate greater “buy-in” from children who have a hand in developing rules and consequences.

8. It’s not all about the kids:

   What was that? Did we say, “It’s not about the kids?” Well, yes. Strong families are built around strong marriages. Ultimately, the most important element of family life is the relationship between mom and dad. That’s job one. Try it; your kids will be happier.

9. Sponsor a weekly essay contest:

   Make this one fun. The point is to foster a positive “This Family Rocks” atmosphere. The rules are:

   • One entry per day, per child (Monday-Friday)
   • 200 words or less.
   • Change the topic every week.
   • Always have a positive topic (“Why I love this family; “How we can save energy”; “My favorite thing about my sister.” “Ideas for a great weekend project….”)

10. Set up “Sanctuary” with friends:

    Remember the “hunchback of Notre-Dame?” “Sanctuary” is the “You can’t touch me in the church” rule. Well, take that idea and make a “Safe-Zone” arrangement with two or three other families. They can drop a child off at your house, no questions asked, for 24 hours while all parties cool down. And vice-versa for you. Do this one carefully. Place guidelines, medical forms, and consents in place ahead of time. There may come a time when you need it.

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