Let’s face it, for many men, good dad friends are hard to find. Friends in general are hard, but when you are a dad it is supposed to be easier right? Maybe when your kids make friends, but not so much when your kid is just a wiggly ball of needs and cuddles.
Moms have it easier in this regard, as they bond with fellow moms over new foods their kids are eating, what they’re watching on TV, learning in school and just general gossip. Dads just aren’t as likely to strike up a conversation about these sorts of things, which can make for an uncomfortable situation at birthday parties and other functions.
So just how can dads have an easier time making friends with other dads? Here’s a look:
- Search for common ground: Do you see Billy’s dad wearing a baseball cap with your alma mater’s logo on it? That’s a perfect in! Strike up a conversation about your college. Maybe you can watch the next big game together.
- Make the effort: Don’t just skip out on going to your kids’ friends’ birthday parties to avoid any potentially socially awkward moments. Think of it more as an opportunity to get to know other dads.
- Join an online group: You don’t have to limit your dad friends to the parent’s of your child’s friends, use the power of the Internet to find local dads in your community. Let’s face it, your wife spends Facebook time each week on neighborhood mom groups, why not do the same thing? Can’t find a local dad group? Start your own!
- Be friendly and positive: Dads have a tendency to be more reserved than moms in public settings, especially when they might not know many other people. Next time you find yourself in a situation such as this, don’t stand on the sidelines or shadow your wife, make the effort to initiate a conversation with another dad.
- Be a coach: Is your kid into sports? Volunteer to be a coach. That’s a great way to meet more parents!
- Join the NYC Dad’s Group or meet-up with other dads at PSP Dad’s nights out (they have these!)
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Article by A Child Grows writers
Photo by Cole Hutson