How To Be A Super Dad With Your Toddler

It’s not just Moms. Every Dad wants to be the center of their child’s universe too but many fathers think enjoying the fun stuff with their toddlers is on hold until their little boy or girl gets old enough to appreciate his company. Nothing could be further from the truth. Here’s a few things you can start doing now to position yourself as that Superhero Dad they’ll always look to.

First off, if you’re like most fathers you might need to change the way you talk to your toddler. Many dads like to think of themselves as the serious foundation of the family and their voice reflects that in the somber way they talk to their children. Experts suggest relaxing and using lighter tones makes all the difference to your child. They even say that adopting a singsongy voice comforts your younger son or daughter.

Activities

Of course, you’ll want to find those activities you can share together and it’s good to remember toddlers have a natural love of the outdoors. If the weather permits, you two can get inventive outside with something as simple as a garden hose. A child’s pool is another old standby but it’s good for Dad to make sure there is only a few inches of water inside and he needs to be supervising all the time. If it is too cold outside to take your water fun into the backyard, spreading a tarp on a kitchen table or floor and playing with plastic containers filled with water can make you the Super Dad you want to be.

Dads need to remember they have a place in their toddler’s life that’s just as important as the central role Mommy plays. However, sometimes your little ones might need some convincing that both parents have equal footings. If your toddler prefers Mom over you, have her call the little one when you’re in the immediate area and playfully try to stop your child as she makes her way to Mommy. If you let him overpower you several times, he’ll start to see Dad in a whole new light and love to be in your company.

There are other activities that increase the bond between you and your toddler and help to shape their young minds at the same time. Reading is an invaluable activity and you can make it even more or a bonding event by taking her to the library.

Remember regardless of how you try and weave your way into the life of your toddler, you need to be present while you’re spending time with them. Checking out during the playtime you’ve set aside won’t do any good for the bonding process. Even though you might be exhausted from a long day at work, regrouping and staying aware you’ll only have them at this age for a short time will help you to stay present and engaged with your little ones.

Read more info like this at All My Children.
Author: Rob Starr