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# 14 Things to Say to Your Kids
- URL: https://daysofadomesticdad.com/14-things-to-say-to-your-kids/
- Published: 2013-04-16T12:00:16.000Z
- Updated: 2026-01-05T21:41:18.000Z
- Author: Colby
- Tags: Family, Kids, Parenting, #Migrated-1767645712313, #wp, #wp-post, #Import 2026-01-05 14:42

## Good Dad, Bad Dad

I have been guilty several times of not handling certain situations with my kids the "*right way*". And, when I say the right way, I mean saying it to the kids in such a way that it does not hurt or demean my child's feelings or being. As a father, it can be tough sometimes to say what you want to say in a manner sensitive enough for your children to understand. Recently I have tried to take notice of my words and delivery tone of both what I say and how I say it. I have found myself coming across more negative than positive when speaking to our kids. I desperately want, *and need*, to change this.

![Say To Kids](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b9/55/b955f19e-2d72-43e0-ad6e-7ea2d292618a/content/images/2026/01/saytokids.jpg "Say To Kids")

## Things to Say to Your Kids to Make Them Feel Special

1. I am proud of you... and then let them know why.
2. I trust you.
3. I am glad you are home (*or with me*).
4. I forgive you.
5. I remember when you were a little baby... and then talk about something cute they would do.
6. I couldn't have done it any better.
7. Want to [play a game](https://daysofadomesticdad.com/cashflow-board-game-richdad/)? Your choice.
8. You are a good citizen. (*My princess suggested she would like to hear that one*).
9. You are so brave... and then elaborate on how they have shown courage.
10. You look great in that outfit... or whatever they are wearing. (*Why yes, I DO have 4 daughters*).
11. Thank you.
12. I am sorry... and explain why (*can be one of the toughest to say at times but necessary*).
13. I am glad we were able to go/do (*activity/event*) together
14. I love you. (*undoubtedly the most important*)

## Things to Try Not to Say

1. You always or You never... (*try to not generalize*)
2. Because I said so.
3. (*In response to "I love you"*) Why? What do you want?
4. I don't care.
5. That's not how you do it. Let me show you the proper way.

![Say to your kids](https://storage.ghost.io/c/b9/55/b955f19e-2d72-43e0-ad6e-7ea2d292618a/content/images/2026/01/kid-pic-1.jpg "Say to your kids")

If you ask my kids, I believe they might say that I am a great [Dad](https://daysofadomesticdad.com/dallas-dad-blog/). In fact, my wife asked them just recently after a [family dinner](https://daysofadomesticdad.com/dinner-time-at-cheddars-scratch-kitchen/). I am a [dad that plays with them and enjoys having fun](https://daysofadomesticdad.com/how-dads-can-have-fun-at-home-6-fun-playtoys-to-have/). But, on the flip side, I am [also the dad that says the wrong things](https://daysofadomesticdad.com/la-torretta-resort-on-lake-conroe/) at the worst time. Each day I simply vow to try to be a little more pleasant and a lot more [positive in the way](https://daysofadomesticdad.com/the-various-ways-marijuana-can-positively-impact-your-lifestyle/) I talk to them. I truly think that, in the long run, it will pay off and our relationship will be better for it.

## What would you add to either list?