As a dad, is it enough to bring home a pay check and show up for dinner at night? If you’ve been struggling to engage more at home, join Derek Carter for practical tips on this edition of Home School Heartbeat, with host Mike Smith.
Mike Smith:
Derek, we’ve talked this week about how dads can make an impact on their families even when they are at work or traveling. But on the flip side, we dads have to prioritize being home, too. How do you carve out more time to be home, and how do you make that time really count?
Derek Carter:
That’s a great question, Mike. And—now, I think oftentimes as dads we have to realize that, you know, we’re working, and, sometimes, we do have to recognize that sometimes we’re spending a little more time at work than we really need to. Sometimes, dads, we tend to be workaholics, and, we know we want to be at work, and doing a good job whether it’s our own benefit or with somebody else, but being cautious that we’re not spending more time there than we really have to.
And also, in addition to that, is, sometimes it’s just not carving out but also it’s how can we link the two together. Often times we can include our children in our work lives. I’ve spoken to other dads that have to travel out of town occasionally and they’re able to take one or more of their kids with them on a trip. That’s a great way of spending time with your child, and also having a child see what you’re doing when you’re not at home. Also, if you have the ability, even bring the kids to work with you. Letting them see first hand what you’re doing.
Mike:
Well, Derek, of course being there for your family is such an important issue for all fathers! And thanks for sharing those thoughts with us this week! And until next time, I’m Mike Smith.
