Clearly no one sets out to be a lousy grandad. But what does it take to be an awesome dad? Based on a recent poll we’ve found 10 tips to being an awesome dad:

1. Patience: No matter how challenging the little blighters can be, try not to rush them.
2. Lead by example. Sounds like some leadership course? We are their first role models. Let them see you take action on both good and bad observations e.g. congratulate or recognise a good deed.
3. Invest time with them. There’s ongoing debate over what’s more important when it comes to time with grandkids: quality or quantity of time. We found kids are more chilled when they know you’re  going to be around.
4. Love ‘em no matter what! So they spewed over your suit before that business meeting, trashed the house, blew your credit card or ran over the dog. Love them, and let them know it, all the time.
5. Enjoy life, have fun. Laugh, be active. Be enthusiastic about life and do stuff!
6. Bring home the bacon. It’s a definite weight on our shoulders. But we do need to adequately shelter and feed our dependents.  Sound primitive…welcome to the foundations of our lives. Do it well and do it with pride.
7. Love their grandmother. Be sure your grandkids witness your  unconditional love to her, at a minimum show respect.
   
8. Don’t patronise. It’s important to explain and provide sound reasoning for your actions and requests.
9. Time for discussion. Consider structuring the meal with everyone talking about their days’ highs  and lows. You’ll be encouraged to see the discussion that emerges.
10. It’s OK to show your vulnerability. By doing so you can lead by example and teach them how to cope as failure arise.

At a minimum, you should create an environment that builds their confidence, self esteem and critical thinking. These three attributes will be the backbone of their life successes.

Acknowledgments and references

Dadsclub.com.au forms its own opinion through its’ own expert contributors in addition to observations from third party literature, reviews, research, interviews and meetings.

Direct quotes will be referenced and acknowledged. Content from books and sites that have influenced a particular point of view will be referenced accordingly. In this instance:

Ian Bruce. 2005. How to be a great dad. Forward by Dr A Bradley. Foulsham. The Publishing House, Bennetts Close, Cippenham, Slough, UK.