You’re probably not 8-foot-11 like Robert Pershing Wadlow, the world’s tallest man, but you are likely taller than your kids. Do they look up to you for any other reason? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by Bobby Lewis to talk about be a dad our kids run to, not from.

All dads must learn how to be a loving father. That means connecting with our children, which can be a challenge sometimes. How do we get down on their level and truly connect?

Why This Matters

You’re bigger than your kids. That may be helping or hurting you as a dad. Your goal should be to make your kids feel comfortable and connected around you.

Key Takeaways

• 1. Prioritize connection with your children at every stage of their development.
• 2. You probably look really big to your kid. Recognize that can feel intimidating to a small child.
• 3. Leverage your size to make your kids feel safe, not scared.

Practical Tools for Dads

If we want our kids to run to us and not from us, there are a few things we can do as dads to invite connection. Try putting these 4 into practice today:

1. 1. Be Calm. Kids won’t respond as well to volume, intimidation, or anger.
2. 2. Be Affectionate. Showing affection doesn’t make you weak. It makes you safe.
3. 3. Be Safe. Speaking of safe, your kids need to know you’re their primary protector.
4. 4. Be Strong. Show strength when they are scared. Be an unwaveringly solid presence in your kids’ lives.

Important Episode Timestamps
00:00 – 00:55 | Introduction & Big Question of the Week
Ted and Bobby open with the idea that size and strength can feel intimidating—and ask: How do I become the kind of dad my kids run to, not from?

00:55 – 03:18 | The Power of Presence: How Big Dads Feel to Little Kids
An imaginative comparison shows just how giant dads are in their kids’ eyes—and why that matters for approachability.

03:18 – 04:49 | Start Here: Be Calm
Kids don’t reflect on their own behavior when we explode. They watch us. Calmness equals safety and teaches emotional regulation.

04:49 – 06:13 | Eye Level & Whisper Mode: Tools for Diffusing Tension
Get low, make eye contact, and lower your voice. These simple moves can de-escalate even the toughest parenting moments.

06:13 – 09:14 | Be Affectionate: Wrestle, Hug, and Repeat
How physical affection creates connection, even with teenagers—plus why consistent love builds lasting security.

09:14 – 10:34 | Hugging Isn’t Optional: It’s Foundational
Stories of hugs, kisses on the forehead, and missed moments remind us: kids need affection, even if they pretend not to.

10:34 – 13:36 | Be Safe: Your Response Is Their Refuge
Why dads must be the first person kids think of in a crisis—and how calm responses in emergencies create lifelong trust.

13:36 – 16:14 | The Power of Gentle Strength
Real stories show how a dad’s reassuring presence turns panic into peace—sometimes just by walking in the room.

16:14 – 19:50 | Be Strong: Not Just Physically, But Emotionally
Strength means adapting to each child’s emotional needs—validating sorrow, calming fears, and affirming even silent grief.

19:50 – 21:14 | Pro Move of the Week: Remember how big you are to your children leverage that size to make a big, positive impression on your kids.

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.