What Kind of Dad Are You? (And What Does That Mean for Your Kiddos?)
by Amanda Miller
N ot every dad shows up the same way, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. From rule-setters and playmakers to dads just trying to keep up, fatherhood comes in a lot of different styles. Grab a pen and take this light-hearted quiz to see which “dad type” you lean toward. Circle your answers and tally your letters at the end. 1. Your child spills milk all over the kitchen floor. You… A. Calmly hand them a towel and talk about being careful next time. B. Lecture them about responsibility. C. Laugh and say, “It happens!” and clean it yourself. D. Don’t notice. You’re answering emails. E. Turn it into a slow-mo replay and make it a teachable moment about physics.
C. Whatever they want to do. D. Catching up on work while they entertain themselves. E. Building forts, backyard adventures, or spontaneous road trips.
more hug. One more snack. D. “Wait, what time is it?” E. A dramatic reenactment of an episode of Bluey .
3. When your child is upset, you…
6. When it comes to homework, you…
A. Help them name the feeling and talk it through. B. Tell them to toughen up. C. Distract them with ice cream or a joke. D. Hope it blows over. E. Get on the floor and role-play the problem.
A. Sit nearby for support but encourage independence. B. Check every answer and expect it done your way. C. Say, “You’ve got this!” and trust them to figure it out. D. Realize it’s due at 9 p.m. and scramble. E. Turn spelling words into a game or challenge.
4. Your parenting motto is closest to:
A. “Firm but loving.” B. “Respect authority.” C. “Life’s short; have fun.” D. “I’m doing my best.” E. “Connection over control.”
7. Your reaction to a tantrum in public:
A. Stay calm and address it quietly. B. Shut it down immediately—no nonsense. C. Try to make them laugh or distract them. D. Pretend it’s not happening. E. Kneel down, connect, and work through it together.
2. Bedtime at your house looks like…
5. Your ideal Saturday with the kids:
12 JUNE 2026 | BIRMINGHAMPARENT.COM A. Consistent routine: bath, book, lights out. B. Strict lights-out, no exceptions. C. Negotiation central. One more book. One
A. Family hike and meaningful conversation. B. Practice, drills, productivity.
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