Youngsters are taught all about different professions, which can spark ideas about what they want to be when they grow up. Many of these jobs have headwear kiddos can recognize and even don while playing a game of dress-up, from astronaut helmets to hard hats, princess crowns to cowboy hats. And, of course, who could forget the classic trucker hat?
Adults can recognize the iconic headwear of these characters and professions, but when we think of someone wearing many hats, we think of the different roles they play, even if there isn’t a literal hat to go with it.
Over-the-road fathers wear a lot of hats, both figurative and literal. My father certainly does, and I’m sure you or an over-the-road driver you love does, too. Don’t miss this week’s blog on some of the different hats, or roles, many over-the-road fathers don.
Work Hat: For the Fix-It Dad
The work hat is a broad term, but many of the over-the-road fathers I’ve spoken to have played the role of the “fix-it” dad. While they’re home from being on the road, they’re continuing to get things done.
Some people might think of hard hats or ballcaps when they think of a work hat, but I always think of my dad’s old straw hat he’d wear when mowing the lawn. It served its purpose: shading his eyes, keeping him cool and preventing sunburn.
That hat was worn and dirty, but I’d like to think it was well loved. It also showed how much my father cared for his property, taking time out of his few days off to maintain it. He even helped my neighbors by mowing their lawns! That old work hat of my dad’s signified both his hard work ethic and his kindness.
Party Hat: For the Fun Dad
Recently, I sat down with my dad and discussed the value of playfulness. He was lovingly referred to as “Mr. Fun Bun” by my mother, and for good reason! He enjoyed playing games with us kids and didn’t mind getting down to our level.
I think the party hat is such a fun hat. It’s meant to look silly, and dads should embrace that silliness! Whether that’s from a dad joke, playing pretend, or doing impressions, you can use the power of fun and laughter to bond with your kids.
In a previous Prime Good Dads blog post, John Skipper talked about creative expression and how playfulness can teach our kids to be kind to others.
“I clown and joke and don’t act my age,” John said. “Being a good dad is the best thing ever. I try to be a positive good role model for my son and for others around me.”
When’s the last time you made your children laugh by being a playful dad? Send me an email—I’d love to hear your story.
Trucker Hat: For the Over-the-Road Dad
Last but not least, there’s the trucker hat. These hats are different from a standard ballcap, as they usually have quite a bit of mesh material to them. Like my dad’s straw work hat, this makes the cap more breathable and suitable for hotter weather.
The trucker hat designates a real role over-the-road dads play: the role of a provider. Not only are they putting food on the table for their family, but they’re also helping provide for families across the nation with the supplies hauled across state lines.
My father took solace in his role as a provider. When I first started writing Prime Good Dads blogs, one of the first conversations I had with him was about his role as a truck driving father.
“With things being so expensive, you’ve gotta provide,” he said. “That’s what’s important: Making sure everybody’s happy. You’ve gotta be that good provider.”
Final Words
Whatever hats you’re wearing, all of them make up pieces of who you are as an over-the-road dad. While your child has big dreams of growing up to be a police officer, doctor or a famous chef, take the time to tell them the importance of the role you play as a truck driver. You might even let them wear one of your trucker hats—or get one of their own. Kids look up to you more than you think, and who knows? Maybe Junior will want to grow up to be just like Dad.
