Dads Habit Toolbox
Dad’s Habit Toolbox
Welcome to the Dad’s Habit Toolbox! These resources are designed to help you and your kids build winning habits together. Download, print, and start today!
1. Printable Habit Tracker
Instructions: Write the habits you want to track in the left column (e.g., "Make my bed," "Read 5 pages"). Each day, put a checkmark (✓) or an "X" in the box if you complete it. Aim for a streak!
| Habit | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 30 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. __________ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2. __________ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 3. __________ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 4. __________ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 5. __________ |
Tips: Let your kid decorate it with stickers or colors. Review weekly to celebrate wins!
2. Kid’s Morning Routine Checklist
Instructions: Check off each task as you finish it. Try to do them in order every day for a strong start!
- Wake Up on Time (e.g., 7:00 AM—set an alarm with Dad’s help)
- Make My Bed (Smooth the blanket, fluff the pillow—done!)
- Brush My Teeth (2 minutes—sing a song in my head)
- Get Dressed (Pick clothes the night before to save time)
- Eat Breakfast (Something healthy—fuel for the day!)
- Pack My Bag (Check homework, water bottle, snacks)
- Quick Stretch or Move (10 jumping jacks or a big stretch)
Dad’s Tip: Time it to 15-20 minutes. Start with 3 tasks if 7 feels like too much, then build up.
3. 10 Mini Habits for Kids
Small Steps, Big Wins—Pick 1 or 2 to Start!
- Make My Bed in 30 Seconds - Just pull up the covers—no perfection needed.
- Say “Thank You” Once a Day - To Dad, a friend, or a teacher.
- Read 1 Page Before Bed - Any book, just flip one page.
- Put 1 Toy Away After Playing - Start small, build the habit.
- Drink a Glass of Water in the Morning - Hydrate like a champ.
- Do 5 Push-Ups or Jumps - Quick energy boost, anywhere.
- Write 1 Thing I’m Proud of Today - In a notebook or on a sticky note.
- Shake Hands or High-Five Someone - Practice confidence and respect.
- Save 1 Coin in a Jar - Watch it grow over time.
- Take 5 Deep Breaths When Mad - Calm down like a warrior.
Dad’s Challenge: Pick one mini habit and do it together for a week—show them you’re in it too!
4. Book & Video Recommendations for Kids About Habits and Success
Here are some timeless and current picks (as of 2025) to inspire kids about habits, grit, and growth. We’ve included brief descriptions and links to common platforms like Amazon and YouTube for easy access.
Books for Kids
- "The 7 Habits of Happy Kids" by Sean Covey - A fun, illustrated take on Stephen Covey’s principles, teaching kids to be proactive, set goals, and work together. Buy on Amazon
- "What Do You Do With a Problem?" by Kobi Yamada - Encourages perseverance and facing challenges—great for the "No Excuses" habit. Buy on Amazon
- "The Dot" by Peter H. Reynolds - A story about starting small and building confidence—perfect for mini habits. Buy on Amazon
Videos for Kids
- "The Power of Yet" - Sesame Street - A catchy song with Elmo about effort and growth mindset—ties to grit and perseverance. Watch on YouTube
- "Kid President’s Pep Talk to Kids" - Robby Novak’s classic motivational video—fun and inspiring for responsibility and respect. Watch on YouTube
- "How to Build Good Habits" - SciShow Kids - A short, science-based explainer for kids on why habits work—great for the Habit Loop. Watch on YouTube
Note: Links are current as of February 20, 2025—check availability in your region!