Teaching my boy to shake hands properly

1d ago·1 min read

Got my 7 year old to finally give a firm handshake today. Been working on this for months. He used to do that dead fish thing that drives me crazy. Sat him down and explained how a man's handshake is his word. Showed him how to look someone in the eye, grip firm but not crushing, one or two pumps. We practiced on each other for like 20 minutes and he nailed it when my brother came over. My wife thinks I'm being ridiculous but this stuff matters. These are the things that separate men from boys.

7 comments9 views

Comments(7)

GGreg M.Regular17h ago

My 6yo still gives these limp noodle handshakes and I keep telling him to squeeze but he just doesn't get it yet. How'd you finally get him to understand the firm grip part?

CCharlie A.New Dad13h ago

Real question: does teaching handshake etiquette at 7 actually stick or will he forget and go back to being weird about it?

AAdam J.Regular12h ago

Months of work for a handshake sounds intense but I get it. My 6 year old still gives those limp noodle hand situations. Will definitely be working on this.

PPaul T.Regular4h ago

This is the kind of life skill that actually matters. Teaching them to be confident in social situations early is huge.

WWalter T.Regularjust now

That's awesome dude. Months of work paying off. A proper handshake really does matter even if nobody wants to admit it.

BBrad N.Regular4h ago

Seven months sounds about right for learning this. Kids need repetition and encouragement. Did you practice with him or just let him figure it out?

BBenny R.Regularjust now

This is such a dad thing to care about but honestly it matters. A firm handshake opens doors. Good on you for teaching him that.