It’s holiday time and with all the busy-ness, hustle and bustle it can be hard to get through this season feeling very joyous.
Here at Dad Central, we want to share a few tips and resources to help. While it may be challenging at this time of year, as dads you have an opportunity to create lasting positive memories for your kids.
And if you’re feeling inspired or excited for this season, then you’ll really enjoy some of the resources we’ve gathered to take your experiences to the next level.
In this short post, we share a fun father/son anecdote from Reader’s Digest, links to helpful articles on how to make the most of this season, and ways to focus on what really matters – not what Toys ‘R Us tells you.
Whatever your holiday plans, know that an involved and responsible father makes a difference. Dads – you are so important to the lives of your kids. Remember that your time and attention is the most valuable gift you can give them.
If you work with dads, we encourage you to reach out, share an encouraging word, and support them in engaging with their kids this holiday season.
From Reader’s Digest
Like father, like son
One evening I arrived home from work to find the lights out. My wife had prepared a lovely candlelit dinner and our two young sons, Garett and Seldon, were dressed in their suits.
“Hey,” I joked, “didn’t we pay our hydro bill?”
A few months later, during the Christmas Eve candlelit procession, the church was packed and silent when Garett asked, “Hey, Dad, did they not pay their hydro bill, too?”—Sylvio Gravel, Fitzroy Harbour, Ont.
Five Articles For the Holidays
1. 15 ways to connect with your kids during the holidays
From Fathers.com, this short read gives ideas on how to engage with your kids, including a few specific ideas for non-custodial dads
2. How to be a divorced dad and thrive during the holidays
From the Good Men Project, this divorced dad shares his experiences and insights on how to make the most of this season even if you’re separated from your kids/partner
3. Tips for holidays and parenting: Letting joy win over stress
Written for all parents, this article from Psychology Today speaks directly to finding joy instead of feeling stress during the holiday hustle.
4. What every child wants for the holidays
Written by parenting expert Dr. Laura Markham, this article provides eight grounded and practical strategies for bringing true value to your kids during the holidays.
5. How to give the gift of your time and attention
Another post from Dr. Laura Markham focused on helping parents connect with their children during the holidays and fill their need for feeling valued and appreciated.
If you’re Interested in helping a dad this holiday season, then perhaps one of our short booklets would help. Whether a soon to be dad, new dad, experienced dad, struggling dad, or anywhere in between – we have a resource.
Check out our store, or go to our free resources page to download electronic versions of our booklets.
No matter what age or stage of dad – we’re here to help.