(And What Does That Mean for Your Kiddos?) You? Dad Are What Kind of
BY AMANDA MILLER
Tally Your Answers Did you get… Mostly A’s – The Authoritative Dad Balanced, steady, emotionally avail- able. Research from psychologist Diana Baumrind suggests this style is often linked to confident, resilient kids.
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.
3 When your child is upset, 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. 4 Your parenting motto is closest to: A. “Firm but loving.” B. “Respect authority.”
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. 2 Bedtime at your house looks like… A. Consistent routine: bath, book, lights out. B. Strict lights-out, no exceptions. C. Negotiation central. One more book. One more hug. One more snack. D. “Wait, what time is it?” E. A dramatic reenactment of an episode of Bluey.
Mostly B’s – The Authoritarian Dad
Structured and disciplined. Children may learn responsibility, but they may struggle to open up emotionally.
Mostly C’s – The Fun Dad
High on warmth, low on rules. You’re beloved, but your consistency may need work.
C. “Life’s short; have fun.” D. “I’m doing my best.” E. “Connection over control.” 5 Your ideal Saturday with the kids: A. Family hike and meaningful conversation.
Mostly D’s – The Overextended Dad
Not absent, just stretched thin. This might be a season, not a personality. Burnout is real. Mostly E’s – The Bluey Dad Playful, engaged, imaginative. You value emotional connection and aren’t afraid to be silly.
B. Practice, drills, productivity. C. Whatever they want to do. D. Catching up on work while they entertain themselves. E. Building forts, backyard adventures, or spontaneous road trips.
CINCINNATIFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM | JUNE 2026 9
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