Most, if not all, championship teams have that one player—the one who doesn’t get any accolades but does all of the things necessary for a team to win. Whether it’s good blocking or tackling in football, running the bases effectively and recording outs in baseball, or playing shut down defense and rebounding in basketball, this person has a toughness and grit to him that’s easy to admire. Even more so, he typically doesn’t look for recognition. He just wants to win.
The best dads don’t look for attention or accolades, either. They just want to mold and shape kids. They do the little things that help grow strong and healthy kids. Here are 5 underrated things fathers do that mean a lot to kids.
1. Provide security.
Last summer, I was away on business when I received a frantic call from my wife. Our dog was barking like crazy, like someone was trying to break in. It freaked her out and scared my kids, but it ended up being nothing. When I got home, my kids said they feel so much more at ease when I’m home. The security we provide our families with our mere presence provides peace.
Dads who play with their kids provide a level of fun that kids remember for the rest of their lives.2. Play.
Getting on the floor to wrestle, having tea parties, creating out-of-the-box experiences are some of the things fathers do really well. Kids need play, especially with their parents. It is a key component in their development, creativity, and connection. Dads who play with their kids provide a level of fun that kids remember for the rest of their lives.
3. Make them laugh.
Kids love to laugh and nothing makes this happen more than when a dad acts silly. There’s something soothing in laughter. There are so many things in life that bring tension, especially for children. When dads make them laugh, it shows them how to relieve that tension and lighten the mood. It helps in the present, but it’s also a strategy that will help them throughout their lives.
4. Back up Mom.
Whether you are married or not, kids need solid boundaries. When moms and dads are on the same page, it draws clear lines, giving kids the consistency they need. It helps kids feel like they are on solid ground and boosts their self confidence. Looking back on my own childhood, there was a statement my dad made over and over that always gave me reassurance, even when it was positioned against me: “Listen to your mother.” Their alignment was more important than getting my way.
5. Set an example.
In the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians (4:9), he advised them, “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” We have gained wisdom through many years of experience and kids listen to the things we tell them. Even though sometimes we think they don’t. More than that, they see our lives and imitate it. The question we need to ask ourselves is, if our kids practice what they’ve seen and heard from us, what will their lives produce? Will it produce the goodness that surrounds the God of peace that Paul talked about, or will it produce something else?
Earn some points: Are you married? If so share this iMOM article with your wife: 5 Ways I Bet You’re a Better Mom Today Than You Were Two Years Ago.
Sound off: What are some other underrated things fathers do?
Huddle up with your kids and ask, “What are some things you do well that people might not notice?”