What Influences Are Shaping My Kids?

Cristiano Ronaldo was paid $3.23M for his IG marketing posts in 2023. Why? What he says sticks with a lot of people, including kids. He’s not the only one influencing young people. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about what influences kids the most. Why This Matters Kids aged 12–18 are considered the most vulnerable when it comes to being influenced. Key Takeaways Kids have many influences including primary, secondary, internal, situational, and emerging The early years are crucial: According to the University of Minnesota, around 80% of brain development happens in a child’s first 1,000 days of life. What they see, hear, and touch during those formative years leaves a lasting imprint on their minds.Action Steps for Dads Children are largely a product of their environment, habits, and relationships, all of which dads help shape. What can we do as dads to control what influences kids the most?  1. Identify generally BAD influences, like violence, substance abuse, and inappropriate content. Don’t be afraid to speak out against these influences and cut them out. 2. Promote generally GOOD influences, like trusted coaches, faith leaders, and teachers. These are things and people who share your values.  Important Episode Timestamps 00:00 – 00:55 | Introduction: Dad Detective Mode 00:55 – 02:38 | Kids Are Sponges 02:38 – 05:15 | The 3 Main Sources of Influence 05:15 – 08:03 | Social Media’s Sneaky Grip 08:03 – 10:25 | Friends: Mirrors and Multipliers 10:25 – 13:02 | What’s Normal at Your House? 13:02 – 14:58 | Are You Accidentally Reinforcing the Wrong Stuff? 14:58 – 17:31 | Check Your Own Input 17:31 – 20:08 | Be the Strongest Voice They Hear 20:08 – 22:02 | Pro Move of the Week: Consider who and what you are allowing to speak into your child’s life and trim whoever or whatever doesn’t align with your family values. All Pro Dad Resources:  Is It OK for Kids to Be Influencers? 5 Uncommon Ways to Influence Your Kids Dan Orlovsky: 3 Ways Dads I We love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info! Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com