Timeout. Natural consequences. Tap in, tap out. There are a lot of ways to go about disciplining our kids. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about dads’ role in it all.

A child who is not disciplined is a child who grows up without a rudder. Discipline enables kids to thrive. It isn’t exactly the most fun part of parenting, but it’s necessary. Even good fathers can struggle to do it well. We give a few options that any dad can try in this episode.

Why This Matters

All kids need to be disciplined, but if it’s not done well, dads can create long-term problems.

Key Takeaways

• Consistency Matters: Discipline loses its effectiveness if it’s not administered consistently.
• Strive To Be United With Your Spouse: Differing messages confuse kids.
• Staying Calm is Always the Goal: Kids receive information better from a calm parent.
• Timeout Loses Effectiveness the Longer it Lasts: Indiana University researchers say timeouts with young children should be limited to three minutes maximum because kids’ attention spans are so short.
•  

Practical Tools for Dads

1. 1. The “Tap In, Tap Out” method. When one parent is getting overly emotional, the calmer one can “tap in” and take over the discipline discussion.
2. 2. Natural consequences. They are great teachers.
3. 3. Catch them doing the right thing and reward them. “What’s rewarded gets repeated.” –Ted
4.  

Important Episode Timestamps

• 00:00 – 00:54 | Introduction & Meet the Hosts
  Ted Lowe, Bobby Lewis, and BJ Foster introduce the episode and its theme.
• 00:54 – 02:12 | Big Question: What Are Positive Discipline Techniques?
  Setting the stage for a discussion on discipline that builds character, not resentment.
• 02:12 – 06:45 | What Parents Get Wrong About Discipline
  Common misconceptions and why punishment isn’t the same as discipline.
• 06:45 – 10:32 | The Power of Connection Before Correction
  Why kids listen better when they feel understood and valued.
• 10:32 – 15:18 | The Role of Natural Consequences in Teaching Responsibility
  Letting kids learn from mistakes without excessive punishment.
• 15:18 – 20:04 | Balancing Grace & Accountability in Parenting
  How to enforce rules while maintaining a strong, loving relationship.
• 20:04 – 24:33 | Discipline Strategies That Actually Work
  Proven methods like “calm correction” and positive reinforcement.
• 24:33 – 29:27 | How to Handle Disrespect & Defiance Without Yelling
  Tactical approaches to de-escalate power struggles with kids.
• 29:27 – 32:48 | Teaching Kids Self-Discipline for Long-Term Success
  Helping children develop self-control and internal motivation.
• 32:48 – 34:57 | Pro Move of the Week: Use This Phrase in Discipline

All Pro Dad Pro Move:
Talk with your wife about which discipline method would help you maintain connection with your kids.

Sponsor:
The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net.