Dad and daughter on a walk in the park

The Power of One-on-One: Getting to Know Your Kid on Their Level

The Power of One-on-One: Getting to Know Your Kid on Their Level

When my kids were younger, I called it “Daddy Dates.”
We’d leave the house — just the two of us — and do something simple. A walk. Ice cream. A round of Pokémon GO in the park. Whatever it was, it was our time. No screens. No errands. No “real quick” stops.

And over time, I realized those moments weren’t just fun… they were foundational.

Why One-on-One Time Matters

Life moves fast. Between school drop-offs, work emails, sports, dinner, and bedtime routines, it’s easy to think we’re spending time with our kids — but are we really connecting?

One-on-one time gives your child what group time can't:

  • Your full attention
  • Space to open up
  • The freedom to just be themselves

Whether you're tossing a football, coloring with a kids coloring set, or just walking side by side, these quiet, intentional moments build trust, memories, and a deeper bond.

Meet Them Where They Are

It’s not always about what you want to do — it’s about what lights them up.
Ask about their interests. Let them teach you something. Play their favorite game, even if you’re not good at it (especially if you’re not — it makes it more fun!).

One of our favorites? Roasting s’mores with a tabletop fire pit — it turns an ordinary night into something special.

When we listen, we learn who our kids really are — and they learn that what they care about matters.

Just One Hour. One-on-One. Once a Month.

You don’t have to call it a “daddy date,” but you do have to show up.

At Hour Dad Time, we challenge dads to carve out just one intentional hour a month with their child — one-on-one, no distractions. That’s it. And it can be a game-changer.

Need Ideas?

We’ve got you covered with simple, fun ways to connect — whether you’ve got a whole afternoon or just 15 minutes.

👉 Check out the Dad Time Idea List

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So… when’s your next Daddy Date?

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