Fathers - Don't Become a Disneyland Dad

Posted by Christina Gregoire Jun 21, 2009

Well, my ex never became a Disneyland Dad, but I've been around it with other dads. I feel like I've seen it all, after spending about 10 years dating divorced fathers. I've seen dads who are so hurt, they take their anger out on the kids (in a subtle, not violent way). I've seen estranged fathers who say they wouldn't know what their kids looked like if they saw them on the street... and almost cry. Oh, I think I'll change the subject to something more upbeat...

I've seen Disneyland Dads.

But, being a Disney Dad doesn't work because kids would rather spend some good quality time with their dads. Something meaningful. Kids want their dads to love them, and not go for the quick rush of fast money. If you are already a Disneyland Dad, the good news is that you can wean your kids off the mile-a-minute extravaganza. And, you can have a lot of fun doing other stuff.

Daddies Dearest should come up with a list of possibilities, but hey, don't do them all:

• Something fun like: A day at the beach, a trip to a waterpark, or a trail ride on horseback (good for many girls).
• A teaching experience like: build a small, rustic wooden table, take kids to the park and give them the camera (not the good one) then make an online photo gallery, explain to a kid what's going on with a TV football game, or show a child what dad does at work.
• Everyday experiences like: make a salad (you can learn together), walk around the neighborhood, organize the garage (just a little), or wash the car together.

Don't spend a lot of money. And, read how to avoid the Disneyland Dad Syndrome. Be sure to take a lot of photos of your kids and send them an album of the weekend, or email them a few snaps when they are back with mom.