What Happens When Dads Go Silent?

We’ve all heard the old saying, “Silence is golden.” And sometimes, it absolutely is. But when Dad doesn’t know what to say or do, how does that impact his kids? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about dads being distracted, dumbfounded, and disengaged.  Why This Matters Silent dads are distant dads, and kids don’t need distance. They thrive on connection.  3 Kinds of Dad Silence 1. Distracted Dad  This happens when dads are physically present but mentally absent.  2. Dumbfounded Dad  This happens when dads get totally stumped or confused by something their kid does.  3. Disengaged Dad This dad might take care of the essentials, but he’s usually not invested in his kids’ daily life.  Action Steps for Each Dad If you’re prone to silence, follow these steps: For the Distracted Dad: 1.    Put down the device 2.    Make eye contact 3.    Repeat back what they said 4.    Schedule "connection time" For the Dumbfounded Dad: 1.    Embrace "I don't know" For the Disengaged Dad: 1.    Acknowledge your state 2.    Ask open-ended questions 3.    Use "I" statements for feelings Important Episode Timestamps 00:19 – 02:26 | Was Your Dad Talkative or Quiet? 02:26 – 03:21 | The Problem of Dad Silence 03:21 – 04:59 | Everyday Distractions 05:00 – 06:36 | The Distracted Dad 06:36 – 08:07 | The Fallout of Distraction 08:07 – 13:25 | The Dumbfounded Dad 13:25 – 16:12 | The Power of Saying ‘I Don’t Know’ 16:12 – 17:30 | The Disengaged Dad 17:50 – 22:41 | Action Steps for Each Dad Type 23:00 – End | Pro Move of the Week All Pro Dad Resources: 7 Ways to Instantly Improve Your Relationship With Your Kids  5 Dangers of Distracted Parenting The Secret Wish of Every Teenager 3 Reasons You Need to Be the Calmest Person in the Room 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