The best tools for parenting might already be in your garage

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Unplugged Perspective

Spring hit our garage hard this year. Winter gear out. Summer gear in. Projects everywhere.

Among the chaos of seasonal reorganizing, I rediscovered an old behind-the-couch table I'd built for our previous home. Since it no longer fit our current setup, we decided to take it apart to reuse the wood for other projects.

No sooner had we laid it down on its side than my 4-year-old son came right over to see what was happening and ask if he could help. Not far behind him was his 2-year-old sister, who was also curious about what we were up to.

"Help?" I thought. "No, you can do the whole thing!"

I gave each of them a screwdriver and showed them where the screws were, and they were off. Their faces lit up with that special kind of concentration children reserve for important tasks. It was a good way to get them involved in our spring cleaning project and a safe, easy way for them to learn how to handle a screwdriver.

I was such a proud dad in that moment. Is there anything cooler than seeing your kids work with tools and want to help with chores? The look of accomplishment on their faces when they removed each screw was worth far more than any time efficiency.

I remember reading in a parenting book that even if it slows things down, letting your kids help with real work around the house pays off in a big way. This case right here shows why. They got some experience with hand tools and developed confidence in their abilities. And yes, I didn't have to do it myself, so while it may have taken longer in the moment, the investment in their skills and enthusiasm for helping will save countless hours in the years to come.

Unplugged in Action

Today I was at home with my 10-month-old daughter while my wife was out with our older two kids. The baby napped for about an hour, but when she woke up, she was quite fussy. After changing her, we settled on the couch and I started watching some Amazing Race.

That's when I remembered that she often calms down when sitting in the stroller. I grabbed her a piece of dried mango to munch on, leashed up the dog, and we headed out for a lovely 45-minute walk around the neighborhood. She enjoyed some fresh air and sunshine, while the dog and I got some much-needed exercise.

Just goes to show that it doesn't take much effort to turn off that screen and get outside

The Unplugged Idea: Tool Time

This week, pull out the tools and let the kids join in. Whether it is fixing, building, or taking something apart just for the fun of it.

If you need something quick and easy, you can grab a piece of wood (like a scrap 2×4) and just practice nailing, drilling, and driving screws into it.

Ages 0–3: Let them “help” by handing you tools, watching closely, or turning toy screws. Just being nearby while you're working builds their curiosity and confidence.

Ages 4–6: Give them a real screwdriver to tighten or loosen screws, or let them sweep up or sort bolts and washers. If you need something quick and easy, grab a scrap piece of wood and let them practice hammering nails or driving screws into it with your guidance.

Ages 7–10: Let them help with simple repairs, measure boards, drill pilot holes, or even assemble a small kit. Practicing on a 2x4 is also a great way to teach safe tool use without pressure.

Unplugged Wrapped Up

So remember, even though that plastic tool set is fun during playtime, your kids are almost never too young to start trying the real thing with your help. Let them hold the hammer and tap in a nail. Guide their hand while they unscrew the battery cover on a favorite toy.

Moments like that leave a bigger impression than we think. They build confidence, curiosity, and a sense that they can do it.

-Ted

P.S. Got a favorite project your kid helped with? Hit reply and tell me about it. I read and respond to every one.

P.P.S. Help another dad find his next unplugged moment—just forward this email.