The Paternal Progress Report - Feb 17-21
Looking back to move forward—our Saturday morning reflection.
This Week’s Theme
Letting our kids sit with discomfort
Wisdom of The Week
From
Part 3: The Long Game of Parenting - Feb. 21
“As [kids] grow, the stakes rise—friendship troubles, failed tests, heartbreak—but the principle remains. Our tendency might be to cushion the blow by reassuring them that they don't deserve this, that someone else is to blame, that they don't need to change, and that the world does. But if we give in to this impulse, we rob our kids of fuel for their inner fire—the fire that can push them through obstacles and send them bursting out the other side stronger and more self-assured.”
The Recap
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
What I’ve Been Reading
Books
Unconditional Parenting by Alfie Kohn
I’m not sure I’m completely sold on the reality of every idea Kohn puts forward, but in theory, it’s all great.
Articles
Understanding Dan Siegel’s 4 S’s of Secure Attachments - Proactive Approaches
Secure attachments are crucial for a child's emotional and social development, providing safety and trust. Understanding Dan Siegel’s 4 S’s – Safe, Seen, Soothed, and Secure – helps parents create nurturing environments for healthy relationships and long-term well-being. By focusing on these elements, caregivers can support children in developing resilience, social skills, and academic achievement.
The Authoritative Parenting Style: An Evidence-Based Guide by Gwen Dewar in Parenting Science
The authoritative parenting style combines warmth, setting limits, and positive reinforcement to guide children effectively. It emphasizes nurturing, respect, and reasoning to promote independence and positive outcomes in children. Studies show that children raised by authoritative parents are more likely to excel academically, behave well, and become self-reliant.
Starting Monday, I’ll be covering the things I wish I’d known before I was a dad. See you then.