Fatherhood Lesson from Kung Fu Panda 3: Take Time To Be a Dad Today

Being a dad is a piece of cake – said no dad ever! While being a dad is probably one of the greatest blessings there is, it is no easy task. Being a stay at home dad much of the time allows me to spend a lot of quality time with my kids. Not everyone has that luxury though. Regardless of whether or not you stay at home full time, part time, or you work full time or part time, to be a good dad you simply have to take the time to be with your kids. If you treasure every moment that you spend with your kids, no matter what you're doing, they will cherish that time just as much or more.

Take Po the protagonist for example. Because of the special relationship he has with his father, along with his support, Po is able to overcome some unique challenges.

You do not need an instruction manual to be a dad. Be there with and for your kids, relish your time with them. By spending time with them, you are showing them how important they are to you. Is that it? Of course not. But that is where it all begins.

Every man is capable of being a great dad! Eighty-six percent of dads spend more time with their children today than their own fathers did with them. According to a national survey conducted by the Ad Council, a majority of dads (7 out of 10) also reported that they could use tips on how to be a better parent. But don’t sell yourself short. If you are taking time out of your day and spending time with your kids, you are a good dad. If you plan dates with your kids, you are a good dad. Everything else is just “details.”

Need some ideas? Here are a few to get you started:

• Make breakfast, lunch or dinner together.
• Go on a hike.
• Collect props from around the house and take pictures of each other.
• Plan a picnic, even indoors if it is cold.
• Plan a short road trip.
• Create a story together and make a book.

Get creative! The options are truly limitless.

If you know someone who is struggling as a dad, share this message. Fatherhood.gov and the Ad Council are asking dads everywhere to make an effort to inspire and support men in their commitment to responsible fatherhood. Involvement in the lives of your kids is essential to their well-being. 

(This article is a guest post provided by Fatherhood.gov and the AdCouncil)