As I travel around the country and speak with a lot of fathers, I’ve found that there’s one question that comes to the mind of most dads: “Am I being a good dad?” Well, here are 7 practical ways to help you answer that question.  First, you’re being a good father when you really listen to your kids.  That means giving them your full attention and not constantly looking at your phone or laptop.  Second, you know...

Pursuing the goal of being an All Pro Dad is one of the most important things you can do in life. And it’s a goal we get to strive toward for the rest of our lives.  So here are 5 ways to be a better dad to your children.  First, be there for your kids.  It’s so important to set aside one-on-one time for each of your kids so you can get to know them and love them well. Second, share a passion.  Find something you...

In the movie, Courageous, Alex says he doesn’t want to be a “good enough” father.  He wants to be more.  Do you? Are your kids your priority?  Do you attend their recitals or games?  How much time do you spend with your children each week? Here’s a thought–calendar your kids!  Children spell love T-I-M-E. Pick a time each week for each child. Mark it on your calendar, and spend one-on-one time together – even if...

When my daughters were young, it was easy to be their hero. All I had to do was carry them around the house on my shoulders or read them their favorite story. As my daughters have grown, so has my relationship with them. I’ve found more ways to be their hero. Here are a couple of things I do and you can too. First, tell her she is beautiful through your words and your actions. Second, take an interest in her life...

Pornography is a destructive and pervasive issue in our culture today. Ignoring it is simply not an option. So, here are the 3 B’s every parent or grandparent must know when talking to a son about pornography. First: Be Real. He needs to know that you know that the poison of pornography is out there. Second, Be Vulnerable. Most men have seen it, either on purpose or inadvertently. Third, Be United. Let him know...

As a boy grows up, there are many people who will influence, impact, and inspire him. But, as his father, you want to be the main voice he hears. You are, and should be, his most important role model for life. So as your son grows and matures into a young man, be sure that you give him what he needs. First, he needs you to be present—in the little moments and in the big moments. Second, he needs you to affirm him...

A recent study from my alma mater, the University of Florida, revealed that major childhood stresses—like divorce, exposure to substance abuse, and economic hardship—have an almost immediate negative impact on a child’s health.  So, what can you do? First, protect your child from the stress of divorce. Sometimes divorce is beyond the control of a spouse. However, there are times when couples all too quickly buy...