This particular topic was sent in by a reader who welcomed some tips on how to respond when his children seemed to have no time for him. This is indeed a familiar theme. It ranges from feeling ignored to being dismissed to ending up invisible.
It is ironic in a way. We often hear about dads who are too busy to give their kids any attention. Because of his job, social engagements or sports appointments on TV, some dads just don’t seem to have space in their lives for anyone else.
Tom Tozer and Bill Black pose for a portrait Monday, March 28, 2016 at the Chattanooga Times Free Press.Here’s a dad who wants to create the space for his kids, but they are too preoccupied with the hustle-bustle of being teenagers to acknowledge him. One can never be absolutely sure what the reasons are for such avoidance. However, we’ll share some musings that may apply.
Take a selfie, dad
First of all, dad, are you sure that they are brushing you off? Could it be that they are modeling your own behavior toward them. Do a self-examination. Are you ready to spend time with them only when you’re ready … on your terms? Have they tried to get your attention, only to be shunned because you’re often too busy? It’s worth asking yourself the question: By seeming to ignore me, are my kids modeling my own behavior toward them?