Struggling with being the 'fun dad' instead of the parent parent

1d ago1 min read

I see my kids every other weekend and I notice I'm just trying to entertain them the whole time instead of actually parenting. No homework help, no real conversations, just movies and pizza and trips to the arcade. My son needs help with math and I've been avoiding it because I want those days to be fun. But I think I'm doing him a disservice. How do I balance being present as an actual parent with limited time? This is eating at me.

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7 comments166 views

Comments(7)

KKevin M.New Dad6h ago

Being the fun dad is great but they also need to respect you as a parent with real expectations. Maybe set some rules and stick to them even on your weekends. They'll respect you more for it actually.

DDanny G.Regular1d ago

I get it - you want those weekends to be special. But setting some structure, helping with homework, that's actually what makes you the parent they need.

SStan D.Regular1d ago

This is something I've struggled with too. Kids need boundaries and real parenting just as much as they need fun. Maybe pick one homework night and stick to it.

DDavidNew Dad1d ago

Real talk, every night my son and I do storytime and homework together. Those moments matter way more than the theme parks, honestly.

AAlexRegular23h ago

The fun dad thing can be a trap when you're doing every other weekend. Your kids need to know you're still their parent, not just the entertainment coordinator. Doesn't mean no fun, just balance it out.

CChris R.New Dad10h ago

I think the key is that parenting comes first even on fun weekends. You can still have a blast together but they need to know that you're in charge and there are still consequences.

JJakeNew Dad5h ago

This is actually a tough one because you want to be fun but they also need boundaries and structure. Maybe try mixing in some regular parenting stuff with the fun. Like fun dinner but also a consistent bedtime routine.