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.

As a daddy to six kids, with one more on the way, I’ve experienced my fair share of school and rec-sponsored sports throughout the years. And I know as well as any parent, supporting your child from the sidelines is often times easier said than done. I’ve compiled a few do’s and don’ts that will help ensure your child feels supported and encouraged, while avoiding stepping on anybody’s toes. DO: Support your child no matter...

Many parents struggle with the never-ending task of wanting their kids to grow up strong and healthy, so we often encourage our children to eat their vegetables. As a daddy to six healthy children – two toddlers and four in their twenties – with one more on the way, I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that are sure to get your kids eating their veggies! Lead by Example: One of the easiest things you can do when expanding your...

Setting aside time to spend with family can be tricky when everyone has a busy schedule. As a daddy to six kids (and one more on the way) I’ve learned that sometimes you have to be creative when coordinating time to be altogether as a family. I’ve put together several tips and tricks that have helped my family and I spend time together throughout the years. Ring the Dinner Bell: Many families don’t take advantage of the time spent...

If you have kids in grade school then you know first hand how challenging it can be to get your children to do their homework without a fight. Well with six kids of my own (and one more on the way) I’ve learned a thing or two about homework. Teaching your child the importance of education at a young age and encouraging good study habits will help them throughout college and beyond. Routines are Key: Together with your child, develop a...

Helping your child (or children) wrap their minds around the idea that they’re going to have a new sibling can sometimes be difficult – especially for a first-born child. This is something I’ve experienced many times as a daddy to six with one more on the way. Throughout the years, I have learned several things that help ease the transition of bringing home a new baby. Open Dialogue: As many of you know from my past articles, I believe...

An important lesson every child learns one way or another throughout his life is how to share with others. With six kids of my own, and one more on the way, I’ve learned many tips that have helped me teach my children to share. 1. Lead by Example: When teaching your child to share it’s important to lead by example and do your part by sharing your things with those around you. Share whenever possible and make a point to discuss the...

In my house family mealtime is extremely important. And with mealtime comes the teaching of table manners. It’s certainly not always a formal affair in our home, but my wife and I think it’s important to teach our children how to act polite at the table. I’ve put together several helpful tips that will come in handy when you’re working towards teaching your children table manners. Practice Together: One of the best ways to teach...

Whether you have toddlers or teenagers, preparing for the first day of school each year can be a tiresome routine. With six kids ranging in age from 16 months to 26 years old, I have experienced many first days of school. I’ve put together some tips to help ensure this school year begins smoothly and easily for everyone. Rest Up: Hectic summer schedules often make the swift transition into the classroom difficult. Make sure you mark the...

A monumental moment in the lives of children is certainly the first day of preschool. Parents anticipate this day for a child’s first two or three years of life. You might remember what it’s like, but your child has no idea. I’ve put together some tips that will help in making the transition to preschool smooth for everyone. Be Sensitive: Like I said before, you might know what to expect out of preschool, but your child has absolutely...

Summer is in full swing, and for many families, that means spending time in the sun and around water. I’ve put together a few tips that will help ensure your child stays safe this summer. Sun Protection: Keep a bag of supplies handy that includes all things sun related. You’ll need: a good waterproof 30 SPF (or higher) kids sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a sun shirt and plenty of water. Because, as we all know – too much sun is never a...

As we near the middle of summer break, you might be running out of ideas to keep your children entertained. With six kids ranging in age from 15 months to 26 years old, I’ve had to be very creative throughout the years. Below are a few activities and outings that have worked for my family during summer break – I hope they will work for your family too! We LOVE Camp: Growing up, my children often attended summer camps. Some were...

Raising six kids (with another on the way) has taught me a great deal about being a daddy.  I’ve had to learn many things about parenting over the years, but today I want to talk about tummy time. First things first, what is tummy time? Tummy time is the amount of time babies spend belly down. Research shows this position is extremely important for the development of the proper muscles babies need to push-up and crawl. Since 1992, when...