Checking in With Kids: 5 Gauges Dads Need To Know
Checking in With Kids: 5 Gauges Dads Need To Know  
Podcast: All Pro Dad Podcast
Published On: Mon Apr 28 2025
Description: If that little ‘check engine’ light comes on while you’re driving, it can make your palms sweat. Nobody likes it when unexpected problems pop up with their car. The same is true with your family. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster to talk about checking our gauges as parents so we can understand our kids better and prevent breakdowns in our parent-child relationship.Checking in with kids is even more important than getting a timely oil change. It’s what keeps the gears turning properly in your home. Dads must understand the challenges their kids are facing. Enjoy this thoughtful conversation all geared toward molding men into finely tuned dads.   Why This MattersIf we want our kids to thrive, we must be tuned in to what’s going on in their lives. The 5 GaugesThe Friend Gauge: Who are your kids hanging out with?The School Gauge: How are things going in the classroom?The Sports Gauge: how are extracurricular activities shaping your kids?The Feelings Gauge: Understanding their emotions is paramount. The Dad Gauge: To lead your family well, you must take care of yourself. Important Episode Timestamps00:00 - 00:54 | Introduction & This Week’s Big Question01:54 - 03:15 | A “Parental Gotcha” Story That Sparked the Idea03:15 - 07:07 | Gauge #1: The Friend Gauge07:07 - 09:02 | Gauge #2: The School Gauge09:02 - 14:09 | Gauge #3: The Sports & Activities Gauge14:09 - 20:18 | Gauge #4: The Feelings Gauge20:18 - 21:23 | Safe & Strong: What Kids Really Need from Dads21:23 - 24:55 | Gauge #5: The Dad Gauge24:55 - 26:04 | Progress Over Perfection: A Word of Encouragement26:04 - 27:12 | Pro Move of the Week: Check Just One GaugeAPD Pro Move:Choose one of the five gauges to check in on this week—with your child, your spouse, or yourself.All Pro Dad Resources:5 Kids Gauges You Need to Check Consistently3 Ways to Become an Irrelevant DadWhen Your Kids ReWe love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info!Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter)Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox.This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store.Get great content for moms at iMOM.com