Dad and Lad Adventures

One of the significant concerns I have about our society today is the absence of positive male role models who embody healthy masculinity. The question of what defines a “real man,” including his behavior, emotional expression, and how he treats others, seems to be unclear in our current cultural narrative. Removing the factor of race from the equation, this is a topic on which most people can find common ground. It’s evident that we’ve drifted away from a shared understanding of what it means to be a genuine, admirable man.

Dad and Lad weekends and time together are a great way to instill the truth of manhood. Our sons need to see that it’s okay to be an at-home dad who changes diapers and spends afternoons in the sandbox or with our girls at a tea party. They need to see that a real man, like all individuals, has emotions and should be encouraged to express them in healthy ways. Emotional intelligence and the ability to understand and manage one’s emotions are essential qualities. Taking time out of your life to have dad and lad weekends is a great way to instill these qualities. One of the traditions I used to share with my sons was something we called the Radford Men’s Club. This tradition was originally started by my dad when I was a boy, and he got the idea from watching the Cosby Show. Our weekends were packed with hoagies, fishing, and watching Cardinals baseball games. For my boys and me, it meant indulging in all kinds of frozen fried foods, watching movies, going on camping trips, and ending the week with indigestion and my wife asking, “why do you do this to yourself?” It’s not about the destination; it’s about cherishing the journey.

Here are 10 fun activities to do with your lad:

1. Outdoor Adventures: Explore nature together by going on hikes, camping trips, or fishing outings. Outdoor activities provide opportunities for learning and bonding.
2. Sports and Games: Play sports like soccer, basketball, or baseball in your backyard or at a local park. You can also engage in board games, card games, or video games for some friendly competition.
3. Cooking or Baking: Spend time in the kitchen cooking or baking together. Teach your son valuable culinary skills while creating delicious meals or treats.
4. Movie Nights: Have movie nights at home with popcorn, blankets, and your son’s favorite films. Let him pick the movies and enjoy a cozy evening together.
5. Visit Museums: Explore museums, science centers, or history exhibits in your area. It’s an educational and fun way to learn together.
6. DIY Projects: Tackle DIY projects like building a birdhouse, assembling furniture, or working on a home improvement task. It’s an opportunity to teach practical skills.
7. Book Reading: Share the joy of reading by selecting age-appropriate books and reading together. Discuss the stories and characters to encourage comprehension.
8. Attend Sporting Events: Attend local sporting events, whether it’s a little league game, a soccer match, or a professional sports event. It’s a great way to bond over a shared passion.
9. Arts and Crafts: Get creative with arts and crafts projects. Paint, draw, or work on craft projects to encourage self-expression and creativity.
10. Volunteer Together: Teach your son the value of giving back by volunteering together for a community service project or a charity event.

Remember that the most important aspect of these activities is the quality time you spend together. Be present, listen, and encourage open communication to strengthen your father-son relationship.