Hey dads, welcome to another episode of Dad Connections in 5, the podcast that gives you quick, meaningful ways to strengthen your relationship with your daughter—five intentional minutes at a time. I’m Dr. Christopher Lewis, and today we’re talking about something fun, energizing, and powerful for connection: exploring new hobbies and interests together.

You don’t need a perfect plan, expensive equipment, or shared expertise. You just need curiosity, a little time, and a willingness to try something new—with her.

So let’s talk about why exploring hobbies together matters, how to get started, and a few creative, low-pressure ideas that can bring you closer today.

Shared experiences build strong relationships. And when you try something new with your daughter, you’re not just filling time—you’re saying:

• “I want to know what you enjoy.”
• “I’m interested in learning with you.”
• “It’s okay to be beginners together.”

These moments create laughter, conversation, teamwork—and long-lasting memories. Plus, you’re modeling a growth mindset: that it’s always okay to try something new, even if you’re not good at it right away.

1. Let Her Lead the Way

Ask your daughter: “Is there anything you’ve always wanted to try?”

It might be something unexpected:

• Painting or digital art
• Martial arts
• Photography
• Gaming
• Baking a new recipe
• Gardening
• Creative writing or poetry

If she’s passionate about something—even if it’s not your thing—lean in. Trying it together shows her that her interests matter to you, and it gives her the chance to take the lead for once.

2. Try Something Neither of You Has Done Before

Pick something totally new to both of you. That way, you’re both starting from scratch and learning together.

• Take a beginner class online (like drawing, coding, or sign language)
• Build something—a birdhouse, a puzzle, a LEGO masterpiece
• Learn a few chords on the guitar
• Explore nature—go geocaching, hiking, or try birdwatching

This levels the playing field. You’ll laugh together, mess up together, and figure things out as a team. That’s where connection grows.

3. Make It a Monthly “New Thing Day”

Pick one day a month to try something totally different together. It could be 30 minutes or a whole afternoon. Rotate who picks the activity.

• Make it a tradition:
  • “New Thing Saturdays”
  • “Try-It Tuesdays”
  • “Adventure Afternoons”

Snap a picture, keep a small journal, or just reflect together after: “What did you like? Would we do it again?”

You’re not just adding fun to your routine—you’re building shared memories that stick.

Here’s your challenge:
Ask your daughter one simple question—“What’s something new we could try together this week?”

• Let her brainstorm
• Offer a few ideas if she’s unsure
• Pick something low-pressure and do it—just for the fun of it

And remember—it doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be together.

Because in the end, trying something new with your daughter isn’t really about the activity itself—it’s about the space you’re creating to grow, laugh, and connect.

That’s it for today’s Dad Connections in 5. If this episode sparked an idea, send it to a fellow dad who’s ready to explore new adventures with his daughter. Until next time—keep showing up, keep trying new things, and keep building that lifelong connection.

Hey dads, and welcome to another episode of Dad Connections in 5, the place where five minutes of real talk helps you build a deeper bond with your daughter—one small moment at a time. I’m Dr. Christopher Lewis, and today we’re tackling something every dad hears a hundred times a day:

“Why?”

• Why is the sky blue?
• Why do I have to eat vegetables?
• Why do people lie?

Those questions may come at you fast—and at the most inconvenient times—but today we’re talking about why your daughter’s “why” questions are one of the best opportunities to connect, inspire, and grow her confidence.

Let’s dig into the power of curiosity and how you, Dad, can fan the flame with just a little enthusiasm and intention.

Curiosity is how kids learn about the world—and about themselves. Every “why” question is a window into how your daughter thinks, what she wonders about, and what she values.

• When you answer with interest, you show her that her thoughts matter.
• When you stay patient, you build her confidence to keep exploring.
• And when you say “I don’t know—but let’s find out,” you teach her that learning never stops.

The way you respond helps shape whether she keeps asking—or starts holding back.

1. Say “That’s a Great Question!” First

Even if you don’t know the answer—or you’re tired or distracted—start with validation.

• “Wow, that’s a smart question.”
• “I’ve wondered that too!”
• “I love that you’re thinking about this.”

That response tells her: “Dad cares about what I think. It’s safe to wonder out loud.”

2. Make It a Mini Adventure Together

You don’t have to be a walking encyclopedia. When you don’t know something, say:

• “Let’s look it up together.”
• “Let’s do a little experiment.”
• “Let’s ask someone who might know.”

Whether it’s googling a fact, reading a book, or asking a grandparent—you’re showing her that curiosity leads to action.

This builds her confidence to keep asking and seeking.

3. Ask Questions Back

Sometimes, the best way to keep curiosity alive is to turn the question around.

• “What do you think?”
• “Why do you think that happens?”
• “What would you do if you were in charge?”

Now, she’s not just receiving information—she’s thinking critically. You’re helping her build her own ideas, and that’s the real magic.

Here’s your challenge: The next time your daughter asks a “why” question, don’t brush it off.

• Start with enthusiasm—“Great question!”
• Be curious together—“Let’s find out.”
• Ask her opinion—“What do you think?”

Even if it’s a small moment, it makes a big impact. Every curious question she asks—and every thoughtful answer you offer—is one more brick in the foundation of her confidence, her creativity, and your connection.

Because when you fuel her curiosity, you’re not just answering a question—you’re building a lifelong love of learning and showing her that Dad is her biggest cheerleader.

That’s it for today’s Dad Connections in 5. If this episode reminded you how powerful your voice can be in shaping your daughter’s growth, send it to another dad who’s in the thick of the “why” phase. Until next time—keep showing up, keep wondering with her, and keep encouraging her to stay curious.