Practical Ways to Connect With Your Kids Before They Grow Up

Ep. 122 – How Do I Make The Most of My Time With My Kids?

As kids grow, schedules fill up, friendships expand, and the hours we spend together begin to shrink. Dads can’t waste time. We must intentionally raise them. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about how dads can make the most of the limited time they have with their children.

Why This Matters
We only get a short window of opportunity to shape our kids’ character, strengthen our relationship, and influence who they become.

Key Takeaways

-Time equals influence: There is no substitute for spending time with your child. Dads spend about 59 minutes per day with their kids, up from 16 in 1965. (Per UC Irvine.)
-Kids prefer connection over lessons: Do the things that draw you closer.
-Small moments add up: Create opportunities to make memories and build trust with your child.

Action Steps for Dads

1: Don’t get discouraged by the clock.
2: Look for teachable moments.
3: Don’t pull back, push in.
4: Schedule 1-on-1 time.
5: Embrace your traditions.

Important Episode Timestamps

00:02:13 – Time Starts Flying Right Away
Childhood flies by, but suddenly feels faster once kids hit double digits.

00:03:30 – The Shocking Math of Time With Your Kids
A breakdown of how little time parents actually spend with their kids, especially as teens.

00:05:04 – Are You Raising Your Kids or Just Around Them?
The core question: are you being intentional, or just physically present in your child’s life?

00:05:39 – Dads Are More Involved Than Ever
It’s encouraging to see that fathers are connecting more with kids but still having room to grow with emotional connection.

00:07:43 – Why Kids Turn to Mom First
A look at why many kids first run to mom and what dads can do to change that.

00:08:26 – Modeling Matters More Than Lecturing
Kids learn more from your actions and attitude than constant teaching or correction.

00:10:38 – Don’t Panic About the Clock
How to stay intentional without becoming overwhelmed by how fast time is passing.

00:12:42 – Be Present Instead of Living in the Past
Nostalgia can rob you of connecting with who your kids are right now.

00:15:14 – Use Teachable Moments
Learn how to guide your kids through real-life moments without turning everything into a lesson.

00:17:53 – Push In, Don’t Pull Back as Kids Get Older
Why dads need to stay engaged with their kids throughout all of childhood.

00:19:50 – Be the Steady Anchor in Emotional Storms
Staying calm and grounded helps guide kids through emotional ups and downs.

00:23:13 – Schedule One-on-One Time With Your Kids
Why intentional, individual time is one of the most powerful ways to build connection.

00:24:09 – Small Moments Create Lasting Memories
How simple, intentional moments often mean more than big, planned experiences.

00:25:21 – Build Traditions Your Kids Will Remember
Why consistent family traditions create lasting impact and connection.

00:27:33 – Enjoy the Moment
A final reminder to be present, reduce pressure, and make the most of the time you have.

APD Pro Move:
Make it a priority to schedule 1-on-1 time together with your kids this week.

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.