No longer the 'fun dad' and I'm okay with it

16h ago1 min read

Spent years being the guy who said yes to everything, stayed out late, bought whatever the kids wanted to win their affection after the split. Then I realized they needed boundaries more than they needed a buddy. Started actually parenting instead of competing with my ex for favorite parent status. It's uncomfortable sometimes and they weren't thrilled at first, but our relationship is so much stronger now. Turns out kids respect you more when you actually lead them instead of trying to be their friend.

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Comments(3)

VVincentRegular15h ago

This hits different. I used to be that guy who let bedtime rules slide because I wanted to be the cool parent. Realized real quick that my kids actually respect me more now that I'm consistent. Way less anxiety on their end too.

BBrandon H.New Dadjust now

Proud of you for recognizing that shift. The 'fun dad' thing feels good in the moment but it's exhausting and honestly it's not what kids need. They need boundaries and predictability more than they need another yes.

TTobias K.Regular41m ago

This is real growth. Being the parent they need instead of the parent they think they want is the hardest part of this job. How long did it take before you stopped feeling guilty about saying no?