Dad and the kids

[Toad_Passenger]

DW is headed out for an extended afternoon/evening trip. This means that I will have both of our kids (DD-4, and DS-7 months) from about 1pm until they go to bed.

Now I've done this countless times, but there's just something that makes me go whenever a night like this comes up, and I know I'm not the only Dad out there who is the same way.

I think Moms just inherently know how to string together a bunch of activities, whereas Dads like me, just kind of go willy-nilly into things. Hopefully I'll live to tell the tale.

 

[Juliegirl1]

Hang in there! You can do it! Just plan a few things - The seven month old won't require any major planned activities but you can include him in whatever you do. Get out some play doh or crayons and let your four year old go to town. Obviously your son won't color but you can start telling him the color of the crayons or play doh - he might like to squish the play doh too.

Take a walk and play outside. Just take your time about it. Don't rush anything. The kids probably also both take naps at that age - plan to get as much done for dinner as you can during that time along with cleaning up.

Play catch - let your son throw a soft ball and let your daughter either catch it or chase after it. It'll wear her out.

Do you bathe them together? Plan an extended bath time after an early dinner. If you wear them out enough they might go to sleep early. Good luck!

 

[stevenpensacola]

Benadryl is your friend...

Do something outdoors...go to the beach (I forget everyone does not live near the beach)...go to a playground/park. Lay on the couch and read them a book.

Don't sweat it, just enjoy the time you have with them. Before you know it, they'll be teenagers and you'll barely be able to get a hug out of them...

 

[fraggle551]

I remember when I was around that age (4) my dad used to make apple pies with us, and then cut out our initials in the crust. I thought it was the greatest thing ever to have a pie with my name on it!

 

[DVCLiz]

DW is headed out for an extended afternoon/evening trip. This means that I will have both of our kids (DD-4, and DS-7 months) from about 1pm until they go to bed.

Now I've done this countless times, but there's just something that makes me go whenever a night like this comes up, and I know I'm not the only Dad out there who is the same way.

I think Moms just inherently know how to string together a bunch of activities, whereas Dads like me, just kind of go willy-nilly into things. Hopefully I'll live to tell the tale.

We don't inherently know how to do it, either - we just seem to get a lot more practice so it becomes usual instead of occasional.

Why don't you tell your wife you enjoyed your time with the children so much that you'd like to do it every day for a week? Then maybe it won't be so any more...

 

[Tinkermommy]

I have to travel for work. In fact, I am leaving for Amsterdam next Thursday and won't be back home until the following Tuesday so my husband has our two for that time.

He freaks out about it! I write up a schedule so he knows everything that needs to be done. I also either make a big lasagna or something they can eat on for a few days.

I also have to layout school clothes for the kids for when I am gone.

I always say when I go on a trip, I have to get the entire house ready. When my husband goes (which is rare) I pack his suitcase and he leaves.

I fully think men are just as capable but they have less practice.

 

[wgwtgb]

We don't inherently know how to do it, either - we just seem to get a lot more practice so it becomes usual instead of occasional.

Why don't you tell your wife you enjoyed your time with the children so much that you'd like to do it every day for a week? Then maybe it won't be so any more...

And she would def. appreciate it!!!

 

[SAHDad]

I think Moms just inherently know how to string together a bunch of activities, whereas Dads like me, just kind of go willy-nilly into things. Hopefully I'll live to tell the tale.

You are really selling yourself short. Dads can (and do!) just fine with taking care of the kids. Competence simply comes with experience, which anyone can acquire.


Trust me - been there, done that, have the (heavily stained) T-shirt to prove it.

 

[JerseyJanice]

I can give you some tips on what NOT to do:

-Don't feed them candy for dinner.
-Don't leave them alone to run to the Chinese restaurant for ribs.
-Don't leave them in their clothes when you put them to bed.

This list is based on a certain real-life dad I know. Fortunately, his kid is now 14 and happy to watch sports on TV with dad, so we're all good now.

 

[kelleyrn2000]

I can also tell you what not to do...

Do not let your DW come home late to find you sound asleep, all the lights on in the house, and the kids no where to be found.
Not good.


PS, we finally found them behind a rocking chair sleeping but it was a good ten minutes of panic and searching outside in the freezing cold because they did not answer us.

I'm sure you'll be fine!

 

[AshleyW]

Another "what not to do" story... do NOT let your 4 year old DD play "hairdresser" with her Barbies alone. I had hair down to my butt when I was 4, and took a nice chunk out right at the hairline when dad was babysitting. My mom cried when she got home.

 

[ccgirl]

My DH is the same way. Please don't call your DW asking how much longer she will be.

Bake some cookies or brownies with them. Coloring is great. Make mom a little craft to give her when she comes how to let her know how much you appreciate and love her. That one is sure to get your brownie points and serves double duty as it keeps the kids busy too. Paint some ziti and let it dry then just put string thru them for the necklace. Not sure where you live but picnics are great too.

Have fun!!!!