Daddy Nickell

Robert Nickell, aka Daddy Nickell, father of 6, offers his "5 cents" worth of advice to expectant and new parents. Daddy Nickell is the founder of Daddyscrubs.com, delivery room duds and daddy gear for dads, and the Daddyscrubs.com blog where he covers topics about parenting and the latest baby and kids gear, all from a Dad's perspective.

It’s always “safety first” in my household. As a new parent, you want to ensure everything is just right before you bring your new baby home from the hospital. And then, as your baby grows into a curious toddler, you’ll have a whole new set of things to consider to keep your child safe and sound. Mrs. Daddy Nickell and myself naturally worry about the safety of our children, and whether traveling or at home, she often takes herself...

As a daddy to six kids, I know as well as anyone that every child is different. And in the spirit of uniqueness, teething often various from baby to baby. So if you think your baby is teething, here’s what you can do to help: Get the Toys: All babies teethe at one time or another, and numerous amounts of toys are available to help soothe your child’s achy gums. One of my absolute favorites, as I’ve used it time and again, is Sophie the...

When your wife is pregnant, as an expectant daddy, one of your duties is to pamper her by making her feel extra special everyday; after all, she is carrying your child! Don’t get me wrong, pampering your wife doesn’t necessarily mean expensive spa days and outings. I’ve put together a simple list of reminders that will make your pregnant wife feel indulged – without breaking the bank. It’s the Little Things: As you probably know...

As a daddy to six children who range in age from 13 months to 26 years old, I have been through it all. And I know it can be difficult with the ever-changing stages of life, growth and maturity to stay connected to the kids you love so much. Here are a few easy tips to help you stay connected with your little ones - and your not-so-little ones! Off to College: You have been so used to seeing that smiling face daily, that now that your baby...

The big migration from the crib to the bed is a definite milestone for kids and parents alike. This transition can be difficult if handled poorly, so I’m here to help. I’ve put together a few tips, based on my years of experiences raising six kids, to help make your child’s transition run as smooth as possible. Communicate: It’s very important to keep an open and two-way line of communication with your children at all stages. Be sure...

Parents often become excited about the changes that come when their baby is ready to switch from breast milk to solid foods. After experiencing this with my six children, I’m here to offer some tips on how to make the transition smoothly. The Time is Right: There are many ways to determine when the time is right to begin transitioning your baby to solid foods. He (or she) will give you multiple signs when he’s ready; some signs and...

Have midnight walks to the kitchen become treacherous journeys complete with landmines and hidden traps ? Are you sick of battling your children in hopes they will happily do their chores while beds remain unmade and toys or clothes seem to rule your living room floor?  If so, Daddy Nickell’s here to help! I have created, with time and experience (plus a few headaches), a foolproof method for making chore time enjoyable for both the kids...

With Mother’s Day right around the corner, many kids and dads are wondering how to shower mom with their appreciation for everything she does. Mom might say she doesn’t want any gifts, but she’ll love receiving something given from the heart. So how do you let mom know she is the root of the family? I have six kids of my own, ranging from 6 months to 25 years, and they’ve taught me a thing or two about gifts and activities mom is sure...

Potty training is a big step, and often times a difficult one for both parents and children. As a daddy to six kids, between the ages 11 months and 26 years old, I’ve dealt with my fair share of potty training challenges. Here are a few tips I've put together to help new parents transition out of the diaper stage. -Wait until the Time is Right: Every child is different, so just because your neighbor is potty training her 2-year-old son...

As a proud daddy to six kids between the ages 12 months and 26 years, I've found one thing to be true of Daddyhood, it has affected and enhanced every part of my life, including my career.  Here are a few ways my parenting skills have crossed over to my job: Roll with the punches: If you're a dad, you know, sometimes (more often than not) you just have to be flexible and roll with the punches. This daddy-induced flexibility has expanded into...

Think baby showers are just for moms? Not anymore! The “Daddy Shower” is the latest trend hitting the scene, allowing the daddy-to-be to be “showered” with gifts and fun as well. The first decision is “who is going to throw” the big event.  For the mommy, it is usually the best friend, mother, or mother in-law, or combination of the above.  For the Daddy, this role has not yet been established and quite often it is simply put...

Postpartum depression is real and it can happen to any post-delivery mother. Clinically, postpartum depression is a severe depression that occurs in women post-delivery. Treatment, symptoms and reaction time can vary from woman to woman. It can show up anytime within a year after delivery; however, most commonly it appears within the first three months. Just as it sounds, postpartum depression leaves a new mother feeling depressed with...