Compassion. Respect. Honesty. We’re always teaching kids values. The question is, are we being intentional about it? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to reflect on the lessons they were taught and offer four practical ways parents can pass on solid principles to their kids.

Why This Matters

The values we intentionally teach and model become the compass that guides our kids’ character, decisions, and relationships for the rest of their lives.

Key Takeaways
-Kids watch us constantly: Harvard research shows children learn social behaviors primarily through observing and imitating adults, especially parents.
-Being specific matters: General praise doesn’t accomplish as much as specific praise, which, when tied to values, increases repetitive behaviors. 

Actions Steps for Dads

1: Think through the values you want to teach.
What do you want your family to be about? What is most important to you?

2: Talk about it with your kids.
Talk about the values you think are important and explain why.

3: Model it.
Your actions are going to set the tone for the family.

4: Affirm them.
When you see your kids exhibiting the family values you’ve discussed, affirm them.

Important Episode Timestamps 

00:00:21 – Childhood Values That Shape Who You Become
The dads reflect on the lasting impact of values learned early in life.

00:01:59 – When You Don’t Live Up to Your Values
A defining moment that shows how failure can reinforce what really matters.

00:04:07 – You’re Always Teaching Values (On Purpose or Not)
Why kids are constantly learning from your actions—even when you’re not intentional.

00:04:58 – Why Kids Need Values to Navigate Life
Our values act as a compass to guide decisions, character, and direction.

00:06:43 – The Two Values That Matter Most: Character and Relationships
Why these two areas shape your child’s future more than anything else.

00:07:38 – Step 1: Decide What Your Family Stands For
How clarity around your values determines the kind of adults your kids become.

00:10:57 – Real-Life Family Values That Actually Work
Examples like kindness, ownership, faith, and prioritizing time together.

00:12:28 – Step 2: Talk About Your Values With Your Kids
What is it that they need to know about your family?

00:13:08 – Teaching Perseverance: “Don’t Quit”
Resilience is a foundational value every kid needs to learn early.

00:14:04 – Step 3: Model the Values You Want to See
Your behavior is the most powerful teaching tool.

00:18:18 – Step 4: Affirm and Reinforce Good Behavior
How recognizing your kids when they live out values makes them stick long-term.

APD Pro Move:
Write out your family values together as a group. Put them on paper and hang them somewhere in your house where you can see them, memorize them, and hold each other to them (in love).

Sponsor:
The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net.