With 2:55 left in Super Bowl LVII, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes made a subtle move that helped his team win the game. With defenders closing in, he made the decision to escape on foot rather than throw. But, as he was taking off, he took a slight peek over his shoulder to gauge how much space was between him and the nearest would-be tackler. That tiny glance gave him the information and advantage he needed. He darted away from harm and ran for 26 yards. It was the longest run by a quarterback in Super Bowl history. A few plays later, Kansas City kicked the winning field goal and claimed the Lombardi Trophy. Mahomes was named the game’s MVP.
The long Mahomes run was the play of the game, in my opinion, but it only happened because he made a small decision to set up major success. My playing days are over, but as a dad, I am committed to doing whatever it takes to leave a positive impact on my children. With kids, the little things—small decisions like the one Mahomes made—add up to big things. Here are 4 small decisions your kids will love.
1. Write the lunch box note.
This is an extra step in the morning. It’s not necessary, but kids will remember it. A lunch box note is a midday reminder to your son or daughter that says you care about your kids when you’re apart. It’s a small thing, but it’s worth it if your kids know that even when you are not in the same location, they are on your mind.
2. Read one more book at bedtime.
Our home’s bedtime routine feels like a marathon. They get in their pajamas, brush their teeth, say prayers, and read a book. It can take time, but it’s intentional time. Our kids are only going to be this age for a little while, and we do not want to miss out. If they want to read The Cat in the Hat one more time, I’m going to do it. It’s a small thing that shows them I like to hang out with them.
Plug your phone in, walk away, and go play with your kids.3. Hold their hand in a crowded place.
I’ve taken my children to busy places like Disney World or the zoo. It can feel overwhelming for them, but kids need to feel secure. Simply holding their hand tells them their safety matters to you. Kids should know their dad values their safety. So, grab their hand. It’s a small thing, but it will calm their fears.
4. Turn off your smartphone.
Just like kids need to feel secure, they also need to know you prioritize them. They want a relationship with you, not the top of your head because you’re constantly looking down at your smartphone. Plug your phone in, walk away, and go play with your kids. It may seem like a small thing, but smartphones easily distract us, and a distracted dad is not a dedicated dad.
Sound off: What are some small things kids love that you could start doing today?
Huddle up with your kids and ask, “What do I do that makes you feel loved?”