We’ve all heard the old saying, “Silence is golden.” And sometimes, it absolutely is. But when Dad doesn’t know what to say or do, how does that impact his kids? In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about dads being distracted, dumbfounded, and disengaged.
Why This Matters
Silent dads are distant dads, and kids don’t need distance. They thrive on connection.
3 Kinds of Dad Silence
1. Distracted Dad
This happens when dads are physically present but mentally absent.
2. Dumbfounded Dad
This happens when dads get totally stumped or confused by something their kid does.
3. Disengaged Dad
This dad might take care of the essentials, but he’s usually not invested in his kids’ daily life.
Action Steps for Each Dad
If you’re prone to silence, follow these steps:
For the Distracted Dad:
1. Put down the device
2. Make eye contact
3. Repeat back what they said
4. Schedule "connection time"
For the Dumbfounded Dad:
1. Embrace "I don't know"
For the Disengaged Dad:
1. Acknowledge your state
2. Ask open-ended questions
3. Use "I" statements for feelings
Important Episode Timestamps
00:19 – 02:26 | Was Your Dad Talkative or Quiet?
02:26 – 03:21 | The Problem of Dad Silence
03:21 – 04:59 | Everyday Distractions
05:00 – 06:36 | The Distracted Dad
06:36 – 08:07 | The Fallout of Distraction
08:07 – 13:25 | The Dumbfounded Dad
13:25 – 16:12 | The Power of Saying ‘I Don’t Know’
16:12 – 17:30 | The Disengaged Dad
17:50 – 22:41 | Action Steps for Each Dad Type
23:00 – End | Pro Move of the Week
All Pro Dad Resources:
7 Ways to Instantly Improve Your Relationship With Your Kids
5 Dangers of Distracted Parenting
The Secret Wish of Every Teenager
3 Reasons You Need to Be the Calmest Person in the Room
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