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.

Most kids will probably say Halloween is their favorite time of the year. There’s so much excitement—picking out the perfect costume, school parties, trick or treating and trips to the pumpkin patch. Just don’t forget to keep your little goblins happy and safe this Halloween season with a few simple tips. Whether you’re a Beggar’s Night newbie or a seasoned trick or treating pro, life gets hectic and we may skip a safety step or two in...

We all need motivation once and awhile to keep up with work, school, exercise and more. Kids are no different. They can also benefit with the help of motivation. As their parent, you are in the best position to pass along these lessons. As a father of 7, I’ve had my fair share of keeping kids interested and motivated in school and sports. Here are a few of my favorite tips below. 1. Make sure you are encouraging them for the betterment...

We all know how important father/son bonding time is. The relationship a boy has with his father greatly shapes the man he will become in the future. But building a great father/son relationship can be tricky as your son hits his tween and teen years.  All of a sudden Dad isn’t as cool as he used to be and your son will most likely lean toward spending time with friends.  Although it may be tougher, this is a crucial time for Dads to be...

Unfortunately, bullying exists in your child’s world, but there are ways you can help. As a dad to 7 kids between the ages 9 months and 27 years old, I’ve learned the do’s and don’ts of handling schoolyard bullying. Do: Teach your child the best ways to handle a bullying situation. If your own child is being bullied, teach them the best method is not to provoke a fight. Rather to simply and calmly (as hard as it might be) walk away...

School is back in service which means homework is back, too.  Getting kids to focus on their homework can be a real chore.  To help the process go a little smoother, create a homework haven for your kids. Set the scene to make it more comfortable and conducive to studying. Below are a few tips on creating a homework space that is perfect for studying. 1. Choose One Homework Space for the Kids: Designate one room or area of a room for...

If you have children it’s likely they’ve made friends with other kids who live nearby in and around your neighborhood. It can be tricky to have new children in your home as your house rules may be quite different than what they’re used to in their own homes. I’ve put together a few tips that will help make play dates in your home enjoyable while ensuring neighborhood friends understand your household rules, too! Be the Parent:...

As a parent I know that for every bit of fun and enjoyment to be had with children around there’s always the possibility of consequences and necessary discipline, too. It’s the parent’s responsibility to teach their children right from wrong, as well, as how to behave, how to treat others, etc. – I know, it’s a BIG job! With seven kids of my own ranging in age from 8 months to 27 years old, I’ve learned a thing or two about being...

It’s back-to-school time and this time of year makes many kids feel anxious.  Some are starting school for the first time, while others have new schools, new teachers and new schedules.  Feeling anxious and nervous during this time is normal and understandable. Parents can help ease the transition of going back to school with these simple strategies. 1.     Start Early.  Begin talking about school several weeks before they actually...

Preparing for the first day of school can be stressful enough for parents and children, and when you add a first bus ride to the mix, well it’ll make you realize just how brave, outgoing and incredible your young children are. I’ve experienced many first days of school and first bus rides and I’ve put together some tips that will help ensure these important firsts go smoothly. Routine: Beginning towards the end of summer it’s...

When you have children you know the importance of a good routine. Children thrive on routine and they’ll come to appreciate it greatly, but it’s not always easy to establish a routine at home. With seven children of my own I have tried it all, and I have come to figure out 5 tips that help build and establish a routine. And without further adieu, here they are: Consistency – Write down your desired routine and complete it consistently,...

Parenting is all about balance, and it can be quite difficult to feel as if you’re giving your children enough attention while also trying to balance work, life and good relationships. It’s all about finding the right balance and eliminating the dreaded feeling of guilt in relation to parenting. Remember: If you’re doing your very best, you’re doing it right. Daddy guilt exists as much as mommy guilt does just in different ways.  I...

One of the first things expectant parents think about is how to prepare for their new baby.  In some cases this means getting a nursery together and in other cases it means organizing an area of their house or bedroom.  Regardless, there are a few essentials that every new baby needs: A Place to Sleep.  My wife and I prefer the co-sleeper for the first 2-3 months. This is a small crib-type bed that can be placed close to our bed in our...