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10 Ways Dads Can Connect with Their Children
Tips for Being an Involved Parent By Gwen Morrison
renceville, Ga., is very connected to his three children. As an active participant in many of their 
personal activities, he is able to watch his children grow firsthand. "I'm a Cub and Boy Scout leader with both of my sons," he says. "I have gone fishing, hiking, camping, coached sports teams, rock climbing, rafting and gone to the auto races with them."
Ahlstedt has taken his 9-year-old daughter to her dances, coached in her team sports and taken her camping. He is always the first to step up when parental volunteers are needed in an area that interests one or more of his kids.
He encourages fathers to get more involved in their children's lives in whatever way it might be. He believes that too many fathers put their own needs above the desires of their kids. "Talk to them, play with them and be interested in their lives," says Ahlstedt. "Encourage them to do their best. Talk to them about sex, drugs and what happens if they make bad choices. And don't fake it – kids are smarter than you think."
All dads can make time for their kids if they really want to, says Ahlstedt. "The problem is: Do they really want to?" he says. "I say it must be important in your life if you want it to happen. Your children are the only thing you truly leave behind in this world. What you teach them will affect your grandchildren and their children."
In order to truly connect as a father with your children, Ahlstedt believes you have to spend a lot of time with them. Get to know them, and enjoy them as they grow. The connection will become more natural as each of you learns about the other through quiet talks, loud football games or just by hanging out together. You have to give in order to receive.
