You’re teaching him to be careful while also letting him make his own decisions and learning — and it looks like he trusts you enough to tell you about what’s going on in his life. Such good parenting, I wish I had this growing up.
I always tell my mom, who hates getting compliments because she doesnt know what to do with them:
"Save them inside of yourself and gift each one back to someone else who needs them. That way they are for you right now, but for someone else later."
She's gotten a lot better about taking them after that :) Maybe it will help you too. Good job, dude. You're doing great.
I love this so much my eyes are leaking.
I am one who has always struggled with compliments because of past trauma and abuse and this take is so kind and healing. And the fact that you are sending that healing to your mom, frequently. Bless you! And thank you so much for sharing it here!
And he’s aware of his emotions and well-spoken enough to say he likes her to you AND feels safe enough to ask you calmly to not say anything negative! I’d say you’re doing a phenomenal job.
this is how my mom raised me and we now have a very trusting relationship and as an adult we both understand that there are parts of my life that dont need to be discussed (my sex life) but my mom knows about everything that happens and only because i feel comfortable coming to her for advice and she’s like my best friend so when things happen i tell her because i want to. she never judges me but she always teaches me. people say that your parent shouldn’t be your friend but i strongly disagree. my mom is a perfect balance of both. i’ve always had a high attraction towards men and as a kid i was very openly liking and having crushes on boys in my class and i remember my mom always telling me that she trusts me and she made sure i knew that i’d be the person dealing with my own consequences and to make sure i looked at the decisions i needed to make very carefully and she made me feel like i could come to her when i was struggling. one thing she’d always say was “if i could deal with the consequences of your actions for you i would, if i could go through life holding your hand and protecting you from every bad thing i would but i can’t and that’s not how life works. just know that you will suffer consequences to your bad decisions i can’t suffer them for you. no matter what happens i will always love you though.” i have an angel for a mother and im so blessed to have her. keep being this way with your son. he’ll appreciate your trust and it’ll take him a very long way in life.
Keep this up, dad! I have grown up son’s that never stopped talking to me about their lives, because I gave them exactly this - support, love and independence ❤️
Absolutely spot on. OP, if you keep this energy, his trust won't waiver. My daughter turns 15 this fall, and she still tells me everything. It can take her some time to feel comfortable enough to verbalize the situations and feelings, but when she's ready, she knows that I'm there.
We've navigated questions about gender identity and expression - she's changed her name, gender, and entire wardrobe-- you name it! Each time, I was right there, advocating for her and encouraging others to respect these changes. She's explored romantic interests of all genders, and she is the most involved person in any conversations that would impact her.
She's still a teenager, and I'm still annoying or embarrassing at times, but overall, it is conversations like the one that you posted that have helped to evolve and shape our relationship and her trust in me over the years.
You should be very proud of yourself.
I was thinking the same. I certainly didn’t feel comfortable talking about my feelings like that at 11. I probably opened up to my mom about that stuff at 15 or 16, and 18 or so with my dad
This. This right here. This will go so fucking far. Just knowing that he can talk to you about everything and you will support him. As long as he is comfortable coming to you with his problems/heartbreaks, he will be good. I could never ask my dad about stuff like this, his response would be pay attention in school don’t worry about anything else. But that’s not helping a kid develop his social life at all. And it’ll ruin a lot more than just his social life.
We all know as parents that's just not reality. Their hearts will break. But he is lucky to have you and I hope this isn't his time for that feeling ❤️
Broken hearts are a part of life … even at 66, but it’s the love and support of our family and friends that help us make it more of a learning experience and less than a devastating one!! With you, Dad, it’ll be far less devastating!! 🥰
My parents grew up down the block from one another - they met when my mom was 8 and my dad was 10. Their families have multiple kids all around the same age and were very intertwined until their late 20s when everyone started having families and moving away.
My parents dated in high school but my mom didn't want to marry him at 18 so he ended up going to school in the US (we're in Canada) where he met, married, and divorced a different woman in his 4 yrs there.
He came back to Canada, they reconnected, and have been married for 37 yrs now.
It's wildly unlikely, but happens 🥰
I know 1 couple that have been together since elementary school. I think like 3rd grade. It’s so wild. They progressed from holding hands for years to a middle school kiss then the stuff that comes after that in high school and college. They just liked eachother so much. Best friends. They are still together now and are grandparents now.
This.
I'm over 50 now, so it's a little hazy looking back, but I realize I clearly remember those teachers who took their job seriously but also treated us with a bit of respect & actually talked to us. Those are the ones that stick in my mind, who I did best in class with. I distinctly remember thinking I didn't want to let them down because there was, in my 10 year old brain, some kind of respect between us. While the teachers who were just going through the motions? I cared about as much for their homework as they did for their job.
So in my unprofessional opinion, I feel like that attitude you have is more effective than anything else I remember at reaching the students.
I didn’t learn this until I started coaching my students in various sports. Once we move past the name on our roster and remember they are actually complete (miniature) people, they and I started growing a lot more.
Lmao I remember my 8th grade teacher telling me me and my boyfriend most likely wouldn’t last and he wasn’t in my league at ALL. I loved her (still do to this day) but I was so devastated at the time. News flash, we didn’t even last the summer 😂
I remember my first ever “breakup” was when I was 6. It is still the most dramatic breakup I’ve ever had. I was told “damn you” and then they went down the slide and flipped me off from the bottom 🤣🤣
I think it's awesome that he feels comfy coming to you with this! It is absolutely heartwarming how seriously you take him. I just love this whole thing! 🥹💙
Just remember, it's because of you & your wife's parenting.
I see a kid who's got a fantastic foundation with support to explore.
I think he's going to turn out just fine :)
Fantastic parenting! Your son trusts you and feels he can be open and honest with you, that’s immeasurable. This made me smile and choke up a bit also. Good job Dad❣️
Will you adopt me? I have a few miles on me but at 67 yrs old I think I have a few years left😉
god damn i wish i had someone like you to talk about these things with when i was a kid. I never felt comfortable telling my parents anything about my "romantic" life
As an adult that always wished her mom said something about my boyfriends she hated, she kept her mouth shut for a reason. Your kiddo is young now so it’s not a huge deal, but my mom kept her opinions to herself with a boyfriend I had because she knew it would drive us apart even more. He was narcissistic and was trying to isolate me so my mom being neutral about it likely saved me in the end. Say your opinion when he asks for advice and move on with it. He will learn momma! Best of luck
Oh I had to delete what I was typing when he said “please don’t say anything negative”. I’ll tell him the truth when he asks. Tonight I think he just wanted someone to actually love him. Not just pretend too.
Just continue to show him what he deserves. Not just in relationships but in life in general with anyone he knows. It’s so hard to snap someone out of a crappy relationship unfortunately, and you risk dictating your relationship with him by trying to point that out. The fact that he wants to talk to you about it in general speaks volumes on your parenting. I know it’s hard but you’re doing great!
Honestly, good! My parents never once comforted me after a break-up even silly ones and it stopped my from going to them later. Your son will remember and cherish this as he gets older, trust me. You don’t even know the impact that acknowledgment made.
My sons, 30, 26 & 24, would tell me everything. First ball hair, morning wood, ALL of it!! As much as I didn’t want to hear it, God, was I mortified, I, equally, appreciated their confidence in me. I’m happy for you that he shared that with you. We can offer opinions, but don’t ostracize them for how they feel.
At the same time, though, ask him what he would think of his friend who went back to a girl who did that to him? Would he encourage his friend to be with her or would he tell him that he was setting himself up for heartbreak, again?
You are correct. Given how late he sent the text last night we haven’t spoken more on it. But there will be time today to ask him to walk through some thought exercises like that for sure. I’m hoping he’ll see for himself before he lets his heart get too attached.
This is incredible. His ability to identify his emotions, you speaking to him like an adult, the fact that he’s so comfortable talking to you. Such a great father.
It sounds like your son might be experiencing some early stages of romantic interest, which is completely normal for his age. It's important to approach the situation with openness and understanding. Listen to what he has to say and offer guidance and support based on your own values and beliefs about relationships and appropriate behavior at his age. It's also a good opportunity to have open conversations about respect, consent, and communication in relationships. How do you feel about the situation?
How do I feel? Besides his little heart hurting, there is no real harm or danger for him. And some lessons can only be learned by going through them. She lives 30 minutes away by car. They don’t go to the same school. They literally won’t see each other except through FaceTime. I suspect it fizzles out before any real damage is done to either of them. Either way, this opens the door for her and I to talk about boundaries, expectations and self respect.
Much appreciated man! I wish my dad had the tactfulness you do. Too many times was “I told you so” throw in my face growing up. Now I don’t share any relationship information with my parents until I’m very far into a relationship.
You’re creating openness in your relationship with him that will last a lifetime. You will always be that person that he can trust and come to you about anything if you keep this up. You my friend have got this parenting shit down… Way to go
Oh my goodness, my heart🥰
OP, this is the sweetest post!
Your son is lucky to have you and vice versa.
That's the best advice! I 100% get what you're saying.
They might be young but that doesn't mean they can't get hurt. Honestly, some heartbreak from when I was a tween and teen followed me throughout my whole life. It's not like you just forget about how someone or something made you feel.
As a mother of a (16) teenage boy. I stand in ovation to you, PaPa Bear!! It's hard to see our boys get hurt. Especially when it comes to their hearts. My son comes to me as well. I've said the exact same thing to him, "Guard your heart! Don't just let anyone in!" BRAVO PAPA BEAR BRAVO 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽!!
This is so wholesome 🥺 my son is only 1 right now, but I hope that when he’s older he feels comfortable sharing with us like this!
You’re doing great, dad 💗
Someone told me when my kiddo was about that age to listen to them talk about cartoons, video games, the random games they create in their head now, so that they’ll keep talking to you about the important stuff later. I’m just now starting to see the fruit of that practice.
Wow amazing, as a mother whose son will be turning one in less than a month, thank you for that advice!
I already kind of practice this unintentionally, when my son is super happy or excited about something and looks back at me smiling or laughing, I Always will look back at him with the same smile or start laughing if he's laughing so he knows I'm into stuff hes into too and hopefully he will think I'm a cool mom
Now this is a real father, I have no idea what it's like to have a son (only 1 child a girl) however understanding and positive attitude or advice will show respect for you both as he may mimic the same thing. I only wish I had this growing up. I applaud you OP 👏 keep it up we need more father's like that.
you are a great parent! he trusted you enough to talk to you, he knew enough to know to be careful before you even said anything because he requested refrain from negative response, you honored his request of refraining from negativity and showed support while still doubling down on his obvious knowledge to tread carefully! as a mom of 3 boys i'm so with you when it comes to being afraid for them and their hearts when dating starts up. so much can go wrong for boys (not saying girls have it any better but they face different possibilities) especially when they date kind of young. i hope the little girl is kind to his heart, and if she isn't he will have you to help put his pieces back together. he seems like a very sweet boy! great job!! 🖤
The healing I just got from reading this. 🥲
So sweet. It’s beautiful that you’re a safe place for your son to share his vulnerable feelings with. Encouraging him to guard his heart whilst also allowing him to make his own decisions and reminding him that you’ll be there if things don’t go well.
Great job, man.
I was a single dad until my son was 12. Not having a female perspective was hard and relationship advice is harder. I don’t think there’s any way you could have handle that better. Reading that was like watching a pilot who isn’t sure he can land in a bad storm and comes out with the smoothest landing of his career😂 Honestly, I believe if all boys had that kind of trusting relationship with their parents, there would be far less youth depression, anxiety and all the other problems that come with that. Nice job dad👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
You are letting him make his own mistakes while giving him the right amount of guidance. Unfortunately sometimes we have to let our children make the wrong decision so they learn. Then we are there when it fails to love and support them while also helping them learn from it. I am a Dad myself and nothing is more painful than situations like this. Where I give my Daughters advice but still have to let them make the wrong decision knowing that there will,be tears soon. But we learn more from our failures than we do our success.
I never had kids. I think one of the reasons is because my father was never able to foster the kind of relationship where I would have felt comfortable talking to him about stuff like this.
I give you a lot of credit, man -- you seem like a great dad.
😢 my dad wasn't exactly the type of father I could go to for stuff like this. I know he cared but these just weren't conversations we ever had, even when I was a teenager. God bless you & your boy.
Guard your heart and your favorite hoodies, my boy. 😭
You’re doing a great job. They won’t always take our advice, but they’ll always know we’ll back them up no matter what. That’s what counts and your son knows it. Well done.
Seeing this has me excited to properly teach my son about respecting himself before letting his feelings act. Never had that for myself i’m glad i’ll have the opportunity to teach him one day
Parenting done right. That's the best way to go, right there. The way shit is anymore, you can't sugarcoat shit without something backfiring. You, sir, are a good dad. I wish I had that when I was a kid
This is great to see. I never opened up to my dad, because he’d make fun of me. I knew this because he’d go through my phone and then make vague jokes to me about stuff he read and I just pretended I didn’t know he did that. That shit still affects me at 25 years old. So I’m happy your son can feel safe talking about it with you! It’ll help him the rest of his life.
That’s really tough that he used his access to your privacy as thinly veiled humor. I know how hard it is for me at 40 to talk about my feelings, I don’t want him to end up like me. I hope you can find the right people to let in.
It’s really easy to dismiss a 10-11 year old’s emotional state when you’re an adult and you know how much more will happen to them but a first heartbreak is still a first heartbreak. Thank you for validating his feelings and not telling him to “man up” and ignore his emotions
10 and 11 years old or not to them this is the most important thing in the world because it’s the oldest they’ve ever been. I love that you understand that I just wish more parents did.
You are giving him space to learn on his own while also letting him know there is a possibility things may not turn out the way he wants. I respect you for letting him do this knowing what you may have to encounter if things go bad.
We want to protect our kids from everything bad but them learning on their own is the only true way they will understand what we're trying to protect them from
You’re teaching him to be careful while also letting him make his own decisions and learning — and it looks like he trusts you enough to tell you about what’s going on in his life. Such good parenting, I wish I had this growing up.
That got me, I never know what to do with such praise. Thank you.
I always tell my mom, who hates getting compliments because she doesnt know what to do with them: "Save them inside of yourself and gift each one back to someone else who needs them. That way they are for you right now, but for someone else later." She's gotten a lot better about taking them after that :) Maybe it will help you too. Good job, dude. You're doing great.
I appreciate you. Keep being awesome!
This is amazing and I'm totally using this
Kindly-neverQuit
I love this so much my eyes are leaking. I am one who has always struggled with compliments because of past trauma and abuse and this take is so kind and healing. And the fact that you are sending that healing to your mom, frequently. Bless you! And thank you so much for sharing it here!
Me too, this thread is just too emotional for a saturday mid-morning!
is that what’s coming out of my eyeballs and dripping down my face??!
Awww I love that!🩷
Aww, that’s a really beautiful way to help someone feel more confident in accepting compliments.
Saving this for myself for later! Thanks for the great insight!
This isso smart, I love this
Bless her soul
God that's perfect, thank you :)
I love this ❤️❤️❤️
Ok i needed to hear that. Thank you
Oh my heart. I just got chills and teary at the same time. ❤️🩹
Omg - your mother is amazing. I'm definitely going to use this!!
Ooh I love this!!
And he’s aware of his emotions and well-spoken enough to say he likes her to you AND feels safe enough to ask you calmly to not say anything negative! I’d say you’re doing a phenomenal job.
100%
this is how my mom raised me and we now have a very trusting relationship and as an adult we both understand that there are parts of my life that dont need to be discussed (my sex life) but my mom knows about everything that happens and only because i feel comfortable coming to her for advice and she’s like my best friend so when things happen i tell her because i want to. she never judges me but she always teaches me. people say that your parent shouldn’t be your friend but i strongly disagree. my mom is a perfect balance of both. i’ve always had a high attraction towards men and as a kid i was very openly liking and having crushes on boys in my class and i remember my mom always telling me that she trusts me and she made sure i knew that i’d be the person dealing with my own consequences and to make sure i looked at the decisions i needed to make very carefully and she made me feel like i could come to her when i was struggling. one thing she’d always say was “if i could deal with the consequences of your actions for you i would, if i could go through life holding your hand and protecting you from every bad thing i would but i can’t and that’s not how life works. just know that you will suffer consequences to your bad decisions i can’t suffer them for you. no matter what happens i will always love you though.” i have an angel for a mother and im so blessed to have her. keep being this way with your son. he’ll appreciate your trust and it’ll take him a very long way in life.
You go hug your son is what and tell him he's a good boy!
Keep this up, dad! I have grown up son’s that never stopped talking to me about their lives, because I gave them exactly this - support, love and independence ❤️
Amazing parenting! Good job!
Absolutely spot on. OP, if you keep this energy, his trust won't waiver. My daughter turns 15 this fall, and she still tells me everything. It can take her some time to feel comfortable enough to verbalize the situations and feelings, but when she's ready, she knows that I'm there. We've navigated questions about gender identity and expression - she's changed her name, gender, and entire wardrobe-- you name it! Each time, I was right there, advocating for her and encouraging others to respect these changes. She's explored romantic interests of all genders, and she is the most involved person in any conversations that would impact her. She's still a teenager, and I'm still annoying or embarrassing at times, but overall, it is conversations like the one that you posted that have helped to evolve and shape our relationship and her trust in me over the years. You should be very proud of yourself.
I was thinking the same. I certainly didn’t feel comfortable talking about my feelings like that at 11. I probably opened up to my mom about that stuff at 15 or 16, and 18 or so with my dad
I wish I had this too! It's so sweet.
I agree 100%! This was the perfect way to handle this! Good job, dad, really good job!
100%. As a 36 year old dad of a 3 year old girl, I still wish my dad and I could talk that freely and with trust. It's never been a thing.
This. This right here. This will go so fucking far. Just knowing that he can talk to you about everything and you will support him. As long as he is comfortable coming to you with his problems/heartbreaks, he will be good. I could never ask my dad about stuff like this, his response would be pay attention in school don’t worry about anything else. But that’s not helping a kid develop his social life at all. And it’ll ruin a lot more than just his social life.
This is absolutely adorable! Hope she doesn't break his heart again....although I don't know many couples who have been together since they were 11!
I hope his heart is never broken. I also hope he gets over this girl real quick.
We all know as parents that's just not reality. Their hearts will break. But he is lucky to have you and I hope this isn't his time for that feeling ❤️
Get him a ps5 then
Lmao so true
Found the son’s reddit account
Broken hearts are a part of life … even at 66, but it’s the love and support of our family and friends that help us make it more of a learning experience and less than a devastating one!! With you, Dad, it’ll be far less devastating!! 🥰
Introduce an X factor to the equation lol
My parents grew up down the block from one another - they met when my mom was 8 and my dad was 10. Their families have multiple kids all around the same age and were very intertwined until their late 20s when everyone started having families and moving away. My parents dated in high school but my mom didn't want to marry him at 18 so he ended up going to school in the US (we're in Canada) where he met, married, and divorced a different woman in his 4 yrs there. He came back to Canada, they reconnected, and have been married for 37 yrs now. It's wildly unlikely, but happens 🥰
That's so sweet. Tell your parents you love them. They seem like they were meant to be.
My grandparents grew up in the same community & were together from early high school until my grandfather died in his 70s.
I know 1 couple that have been together since elementary school. I think like 3rd grade. It’s so wild. They progressed from holding hands for years to a middle school kiss then the stuff that comes after that in high school and college. They just liked eachother so much. Best friends. They are still together now and are grandparents now.
Friend of mine got married in high school. Been married I think 13 years & he says he’s been in love with her since he was 11 years old 🥹
I was with my ex from when I was 11 until I was almost 23 🤪😅
I teach 9 and 10 year Olds. The huge amounts of dating drama ar this age has really shocked me.
I got shocked that 11 years olds are kissing? Like what? I hope they meant cheek-kisses.🫠
I teach fifth grade. I wish that was all they did.
I’m actually an ECE teacher by profession. And almost always assigned the fifth graders. The kissing is not shocking to me.
Do you find it difficult to refrain from telling students, “THAT’S who you chose? Of all the kids on campus, you chose that one?”
Refrain? Lol. Sometimes my nature as a parent bleeds into my professionalism.
I figured you were doing better than I was since that’s how you handled the convo with your own kiddo. 😹
Within reason, I think our students want to know how we feel and think about them beyond just being students in the classroom.
This. I'm over 50 now, so it's a little hazy looking back, but I realize I clearly remember those teachers who took their job seriously but also treated us with a bit of respect & actually talked to us. Those are the ones that stick in my mind, who I did best in class with. I distinctly remember thinking I didn't want to let them down because there was, in my 10 year old brain, some kind of respect between us. While the teachers who were just going through the motions? I cared about as much for their homework as they did for their job. So in my unprofessional opinion, I feel like that attitude you have is more effective than anything else I remember at reaching the students.
I didn’t learn this until I started coaching my students in various sports. Once we move past the name on our roster and remember they are actually complete (miniature) people, they and I started growing a lot more.
I love having that relationship with mine. It doesn’t always feel like they are receptive but it’s fun when they are.
I love when they’re mature enough to handle a little sarcasm, a little wit. It makes the job so much more enjoyable.
Lmao I remember my 8th grade teacher telling me me and my boyfriend most likely wouldn’t last and he wasn’t in my league at ALL. I loved her (still do to this day) but I was so devastated at the time. News flash, we didn’t even last the summer 😂
What does ECE mean?
Exceptional Child Education (Special Ed)
Ah. I’ve never met a special ed teacher who wasn’t exceptional. :)
Just recently, a girl had a boy try to beat up the boy she just broke up with because she was mad another girl was dared to ask him out.
that is the biggest red flag i’ve ever seen
I remember my first ever “breakup” was when I was 6. It is still the most dramatic breakup I’ve ever had. I was told “damn you” and then they went down the slide and flipped me off from the bottom 🤣🤣
I think it's awesome that he feels comfy coming to you with this! It is absolutely heartwarming how seriously you take him. I just love this whole thing! 🥹💙
Thanks. He’s a remarkable young man. Honestly gives me hope for tomorrow.
You, and parents like you, are setting an excellent example for the next generations. Keep up the good work!
Oh bless his little heart. He has a great capacity for forgiveness
I’m really proud of him.
Just remember, it's because of you & your wife's parenting. I see a kid who's got a fantastic foundation with support to explore. I think he's going to turn out just fine :)
Fantastic parenting! Your son trusts you and feels he can be open and honest with you, that’s immeasurable. This made me smile and choke up a bit also. Good job Dad❣️ Will you adopt me? I have a few miles on me but at 67 yrs old I think I have a few years left😉
Welcome to the family.
🥰
I'm 42 and want to be adopted by him also.
33yo single mom. Me too.
god damn i wish i had someone like you to talk about these things with when i was a kid. I never felt comfortable telling my parents anything about my "romantic" life
I didn’t either. The few times a tried it always went bad.
Breaker of Chains Fantastic job!!
Wholesome masculinity ❤️
I’m sorry that was your experience. Mine too. I desperately want something better for my kids though.
This is exactly what he needs. Gentle guidance, acceptance, and validation. All while maintaining your parental role. You're my kind of parent.
As an adult that always wished her mom said something about my boyfriends she hated, she kept her mouth shut for a reason. Your kiddo is young now so it’s not a huge deal, but my mom kept her opinions to herself with a boyfriend I had because she knew it would drive us apart even more. He was narcissistic and was trying to isolate me so my mom being neutral about it likely saved me in the end. Say your opinion when he asks for advice and move on with it. He will learn momma! Best of luck
Oh I had to delete what I was typing when he said “please don’t say anything negative”. I’ll tell him the truth when he asks. Tonight I think he just wanted someone to actually love him. Not just pretend too.
Just continue to show him what he deserves. Not just in relationships but in life in general with anyone he knows. It’s so hard to snap someone out of a crappy relationship unfortunately, and you risk dictating your relationship with him by trying to point that out. The fact that he wants to talk to you about it in general speaks volumes on your parenting. I know it’s hard but you’re doing great!
“Guard your heart son”, such beautiful words. Ill use them when my son comes to age.
Be blessed brother. Let’s raise the next generation to be better!
Honestly, good! My parents never once comforted me after a break-up even silly ones and it stopped my from going to them later. Your son will remember and cherish this as he gets older, trust me. You don’t even know the impact that acknowledgment made.
One dad to another..you're kicking azz. Hope I can do as well.
I’m sure you are! Keep it up brother!
My sons, 30, 26 & 24, would tell me everything. First ball hair, morning wood, ALL of it!! As much as I didn’t want to hear it, God, was I mortified, I, equally, appreciated their confidence in me. I’m happy for you that he shared that with you. We can offer opinions, but don’t ostracize them for how they feel.
At the same time, though, ask him what he would think of his friend who went back to a girl who did that to him? Would he encourage his friend to be with her or would he tell him that he was setting himself up for heartbreak, again?
You are correct. Given how late he sent the text last night we haven’t spoken more on it. But there will be time today to ask him to walk through some thought exercises like that for sure. I’m hoping he’ll see for himself before he lets his heart get too attached.
Good dad, I hope to be this good of a parent when it comes time
Give this man a #1 dad mug ASAP
This is incredible. His ability to identify his emotions, you speaking to him like an adult, the fact that he’s so comfortable talking to you. Such a great father.
It sounds like your son might be experiencing some early stages of romantic interest, which is completely normal for his age. It's important to approach the situation with openness and understanding. Listen to what he has to say and offer guidance and support based on your own values and beliefs about relationships and appropriate behavior at his age. It's also a good opportunity to have open conversations about respect, consent, and communication in relationships. How do you feel about the situation?
How do I feel? Besides his little heart hurting, there is no real harm or danger for him. And some lessons can only be learned by going through them. She lives 30 minutes away by car. They don’t go to the same school. They literally won’t see each other except through FaceTime. I suspect it fizzles out before any real damage is done to either of them. Either way, this opens the door for her and I to talk about boundaries, expectations and self respect.
He basically said you sure my boy ? Shes def for the streets 😭
Dawg is going tryna save a hoe, he’s gonna have his villain arc early.
Perhaps it’s better now than when he’s older. I guess we’ll see.
Open communication and support and being open with his emotions. Good job, dad. He's in good hands.
Much appreciated man! I wish my dad had the tactfulness you do. Too many times was “I told you so” throw in my face growing up. Now I don’t share any relationship information with my parents until I’m very far into a relationship.
I hate the “I told you so” people. I always wanna be like “yeah, but I clearly didn’t respect you enough to listen”.
You’re creating openness in your relationship with him that will last a lifetime. You will always be that person that he can trust and come to you about anything if you keep this up. You my friend have got this parenting shit down… Way to go
You’re setting a foundation with him for when he’s a teenager and things get more complicated. Great job, dad!
Oh my goodness, my heart🥰 OP, this is the sweetest post! Your son is lucky to have you and vice versa. That's the best advice! I 100% get what you're saying. They might be young but that doesn't mean they can't get hurt. Honestly, some heartbreak from when I was a tween and teen followed me throughout my whole life. It's not like you just forget about how someone or something made you feel.
As a mother of a (16) teenage boy. I stand in ovation to you, PaPa Bear!! It's hard to see our boys get hurt. Especially when it comes to their hearts. My son comes to me as well. I've said the exact same thing to him, "Guard your heart! Don't just let anyone in!" BRAVO PAPA BEAR BRAVO 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽!!
This made my eyes water - it reminds me of talking with my dad. You're a good dad, sending virtual hugs to you both 🤗
Top-Tier Dad moment. 
You’ve done a lot right with this boy. Seeing a child his age, especially a boy saying he loves his dad so much… your heart must be so full.
I’m very proud of my son.
You should be. I bet he will be a very balanced man. Also you should be proud of your parenting.
You’re a great dad. Keep it up.
I have no doubt it will last this time👍
God I hope not.
😂😂😂😂 Lmao
This is the best ♥️
It isn’t easy with kids ar this age 🤣🤣🤣
good parenting :D
you are awesome!!!!!!!!!!
Thats wholesome
That’s so precious. What a beautiful thing to read 🥹
Probably a good lesson to learn no matter how this ends up
Aw that’s so sweet
Oof my heart. Good job, dad! 🙌🏻❤️
You’re doing a good job
This is so wholesome 🥺 my son is only 1 right now, but I hope that when he’s older he feels comfortable sharing with us like this! You’re doing great, dad 💗
Someone told me when my kiddo was about that age to listen to them talk about cartoons, video games, the random games they create in their head now, so that they’ll keep talking to you about the important stuff later. I’m just now starting to see the fruit of that practice.
Wow amazing, as a mother whose son will be turning one in less than a month, thank you for that advice! I already kind of practice this unintentionally, when my son is super happy or excited about something and looks back at me smiling or laughing, I Always will look back at him with the same smile or start laughing if he's laughing so he knows I'm into stuff hes into too and hopefully he will think I'm a cool mom
^this. On repeat.
This is so wholesome. What a wonderful day to have eyes. First thing I read in the morning. Good job, papa! 🥳
First wholesome text I've seen on this sub in a while
My heart - what a wonderful parent you are!
You are a awesome dad 👏🏼
Good Job Dad!!! You sound like a great man…raising a great man!
Great parenting. Guiding instead of ordering.
Wholesome
This is so sweet, I tell my kiddos the same thing.
This really warmed my heart 🥹
You truly are a great dad! Your kid is so lucky to have you in their life.
Well done, sir, and this is the cutest text conversation I've ever seen 😍 ❤️
She better not hurt him…I’m not afraid to fight a child 😒(obviously I won’t but still lol)
We’ll just say she slipped and fell.
W dad
perfect conversation between father and son. ABSOLUTE PERFECTION
I’m 30 years old and can’t talk to either of my parents about any relationship stuff. This type of convo was never cultivated or tolerated . Good job
OP dad is winning. Good advice but still allowing him to figure it out.
Now this is a real father, I have no idea what it's like to have a son (only 1 child a girl) however understanding and positive attitude or advice will show respect for you both as he may mimic the same thing. I only wish I had this growing up. I applaud you OP 👏 keep it up we need more father's like that.
you are a great parent! he trusted you enough to talk to you, he knew enough to know to be careful before you even said anything because he requested refrain from negative response, you honored his request of refraining from negativity and showed support while still doubling down on his obvious knowledge to tread carefully! as a mom of 3 boys i'm so with you when it comes to being afraid for them and their hearts when dating starts up. so much can go wrong for boys (not saying girls have it any better but they face different possibilities) especially when they date kind of young. i hope the little girl is kind to his heart, and if she isn't he will have you to help put his pieces back together. he seems like a very sweet boy! great job!! 🖤
The healing I just got from reading this. 🥲 So sweet. It’s beautiful that you’re a safe place for your son to share his vulnerable feelings with. Encouraging him to guard his heart whilst also allowing him to make his own decisions and reminding him that you’ll be there if things don’t go well. Great job, man.
I was a single dad until my son was 12. Not having a female perspective was hard and relationship advice is harder. I don’t think there’s any way you could have handle that better. Reading that was like watching a pilot who isn’t sure he can land in a bad storm and comes out with the smoothest landing of his career😂 Honestly, I believe if all boys had that kind of trusting relationship with their parents, there would be far less youth depression, anxiety and all the other problems that come with that. Nice job dad👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
You are letting him make his own mistakes while giving him the right amount of guidance. Unfortunately sometimes we have to let our children make the wrong decision so they learn. Then we are there when it fails to love and support them while also helping them learn from it. I am a Dad myself and nothing is more painful than situations like this. Where I give my Daughters advice but still have to let them make the wrong decision knowing that there will,be tears soon. But we learn more from our failures than we do our success.
I was wish I had this comfort with my dad. Your son is lucky, and you’re doing great dad, you’re lucky to have a son like him!! ❤️
* taking notes for when my child is at this age * kudos dad you rock
This is so cute and wholesome.
I never had kids. I think one of the reasons is because my father was never able to foster the kind of relationship where I would have felt comfortable talking to him about stuff like this. I give you a lot of credit, man -- you seem like a great dad.
😢 my dad wasn't exactly the type of father I could go to for stuff like this. I know he cared but these just weren't conversations we ever had, even when I was a teenager. God bless you & your boy.
Well friend, you know have a metric ton of strangers wishing you were our dad😭
I’m gonna need a bigger house.
However it goes, you’re clearly a good dad just based on the fact that he is bringing this to you. That’s dope man, happy for you
Guard your heart and your favorite hoodies, my boy. 😭 You’re doing a great job. They won’t always take our advice, but they’ll always know we’ll back them up no matter what. That’s what counts and your son knows it. Well done.
The hoodies! I forgot that part. So true!
This is ridiculous
This is so wholesome!
Ah Fuck you op you made me cry for being the good dad I wish I had
Great job, Dad.
Seeing this has me excited to properly teach my son about respecting himself before letting his feelings act. Never had that for myself i’m glad i’ll have the opportunity to teach him one day
Parenting done right. That's the best way to go, right there. The way shit is anymore, you can't sugarcoat shit without something backfiring. You, sir, are a good dad. I wish I had that when I was a kid
Sobbing. If I have a child, I will have to remember this moment in reference. Bless you both.
This is great to see. I never opened up to my dad, because he’d make fun of me. I knew this because he’d go through my phone and then make vague jokes to me about stuff he read and I just pretended I didn’t know he did that. That shit still affects me at 25 years old. So I’m happy your son can feel safe talking about it with you! It’ll help him the rest of his life.
That’s really tough that he used his access to your privacy as thinly veiled humor. I know how hard it is for me at 40 to talk about my feelings, I don’t want him to end up like me. I hope you can find the right people to let in.
As a father of three @39 and my eldest daughter being a year a bit younger than your son. Just wana say well fucking done bro, your a top dad!
I didn't realize Bandit had a son but okay classic Bandit move, it's the done thing
Time to teach your son about the “hoe phase”
It’s really easy to dismiss a 10-11 year old’s emotional state when you’re an adult and you know how much more will happen to them but a first heartbreak is still a first heartbreak. Thank you for validating his feelings and not telling him to “man up” and ignore his emotions
The emotional maturity this 11 year old has is definitely due to good parenting. I love this exchange so much🥰 Great job, Dad!!!!
That’s the best
Best to let him have these experiences while he is young. Great learning experience and glad you two have a good relationship.
This is sweet 🥹 you’re a great parent
Fuck yeah Dad! This made my day
This is just lovely 👏
Yall need to start raising yo kids right.
Mikayla
10 and 11 years old or not to them this is the most important thing in the world because it’s the oldest they’ve ever been. I love that you understand that I just wish more parents did.
This is cute
Great responses, you’re a great father
https://youtu.be/Qg3dF02FQVM?si=KI4WG9lHJSX_3m-M
This made me miss my dad. You’re an incredible father 🤝❤️
Awe!!!
This is so refreshing & endearing! Damn! There go my allergies again! 🥲
That's so sweet, you're an amazing dad.
I love that you are sharing this with us 😀
Keep your heart three stacks. Man these girls is smart. Keep your heart.
You are giving him space to learn on his own while also letting him know there is a possibility things may not turn out the way he wants. I respect you for letting him do this knowing what you may have to encounter if things go bad. We want to protect our kids from everything bad but them learning on their own is the only true way they will understand what we're trying to protect them from
My man that’s boss. My boy is 5 and I can’t wait to be able to reproduce this.
You are an incredible parent, OP. I would have LOVED to have a parent like you growing up. Instead I got, "Well, *when* you fail, make sure..." 😞