Sadie Story Of The Week

Nanny vs. Daycare Debunked

Last week, we were deciding between daycare and a nanny.

And after a whole lot of back-and-forth, daycare tours, and parental soul-searching… we made the call.

Team Nanny.

We toured the daycare. The staff was sweet. The walls were bright. The other kids seemed content.

But something didn’t sit right. Watching her through that window, I just knew I couldn’t do it. Not yet.

She’s still so little.

Still figuring out how to smile, how to stretch, how to trust the world.

I want her days to feel calm. Safe. Personal.

Not scheduled down to the minute like a baby startup accelerator.

So we found a nanny. One person. One steady face. One peaceful rhythm to her day.

Daycare might come later.

But for now, we’re keeping it close.

Lesson learned: Just because everyone else is doing it doesn’t mean it’s right for your girl. Trust your gut, even if it makes your calendar messier and your wallet lighter.

She’s worth it.

(Sponsored)

Keeping this newsletter free means occasionally sharing something awesome we think you'll actually use. Like this 👇

Want to get the most out of ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is a superpower if you know how to use it correctly.

Discover how HubSpot's guide to AI can elevate both your productivity and creativity to get more things done.

Learn to automate tasks, enhance decision-making, and foster innovation with the power of AI.

Download the free guide

If you’ve ever wished you had more time in the day (because, same), this free guide from HubSpot is packed with 100 ChatGPT prompts to help you do more with less—at work, at home, or during those precious minutes between bedtime stories and clean-up duty.

🚀 Automate the boring stuff.

🧠 Make faster decisions.

💡 Even come up with snack ideas that aren’t Goldfish.

Check it out and help keep Girl Dad Diaries running FREE & strong.

Dad-To-Dad Wisdom

Quote Of The Week

“Don’t save what is left after spending, but spend what is left after saving—on what matters most.”

— Warren Buffett

Having a kid will stretch your budget in ways no spreadsheet can prepare you for.

It’s not just diapers and doctor visits.

It’s swim lessons, museum memberships, backup loveys, birthday parties, and that $17 sippy cup she used once and now refuses to acknowledge.

But here’s the wisdom:

Some things are worth the swipe.

Not everything has to be the cheapest option.

Sometimes the “splurge” is what keeps your sanity intact, her safe, or your bond stronger.

A little extra for a trusted nanny?

Worth it.

Signing her up for the class she’s obsessed with, even if it’s across town?

Worth it.

That overpriced toy that buys you 15 peaceful minutes to shower?

Also worth it.

It’s not about spoiling, it’s about spending with intention.

And when it brings her/you joy, growth, or calm?

That’s a return on investment no bank can match.

Looking for simple ways to connect and grow together?

Daddy & Me Learning Pack - Packed with screen-free educational activities.

Girl Dad Guide to Mindful Parenting - All about showing up with intention, packed with quick wins for a deeper connection.

100 Kid-Friendly Recipes - Delicious dishes designed to bring dads & Daughters together in the kitchen for fun, learning, and unforgettable memories.

Daddy & Daughter Coupon Book - Filled with 30 adorable, silly, and heartwarming coupons that daughters can redeem from dad.

Dad Hacks & Tips

Why Routines Matter (Even When They Resist Them)

If your daughter is anywhere between 2 and 5, you’ve probably noticed bedtime can feel like negotiating with a sleep-deprived CEO in glitter pajamas.

But here’s the thing, kids this age crave structure, even if they fight it.

A consistent bedtime routine isn’t just about getting her to sleep faster (though, yes please). It’s about security. Predictability. The quiet message that “this is what we do, and you’re safe here.”

At this age, her world feels big and unpredictable.

The bedtime routine? That’s her anchor.

Same time. Same order. Same silly song or favorite book.

It teaches her to wind down, trust the process, and fall asleep knowing she’s okay.

And when you stick with it, even after the fourth stall tactic, she learns something bigger:

Dad shows up. Dad follows through. Dad makes me feel safe.

That’s the kind of routine that sticks for life.

Bonus Tip: Let her feel involved. Give her “routine roles” like picking the book or turning on the sound machine.

It gives her ownership… and cuts bedtime protests in half.

New Dad Reads That Actually Help

If you’re like me, you probably Googled “What do I do with a newborn?” more than once.

Here are two no-fluff books that helped quiet the panic and gave me a real sense of what to expect:

The Expectant Father – Perfect if you're still in the "Is this really happening?" phase. Covers the emotional and practical side of pregnancy from a guy’s perspective.

The New Father: A Dad’s Guide to the First Year – This one’s been my go-to since Sadie arrived. Real talk on baby milestones, dad identity shifts, and how to actually be helpful (without just asking “What can I do?” every 5 minutes).

Consider them the dad manual no one gives you at the hospital.

Papa Poll Of The Week

Vote now!

Results will be posted in next Friday’s newsletter.

Last Week’s Poll Results

How did you really feel about sending your daughter to daycare after being home with her those first few months?

Turns out, no matter how ready we think we are… daycare drop-off hits different.

Many of you said you were relieved to get a break… and then instantly missed her. Classic dad whiplash. You go from savoring silence to staring at the clock like a lost puppy.

Others admitted to being secretly gutted, even when proud. And a fair few questioned everything (you’re not alone).

And the biggest group? Not even there yet. Savor the time you have now and do what’s best for you and your family when the time comes.

No one’s got the perfect answer. Just a lot of heart, a little panic, and the hope we’re doing what’s best.

The Last Crumb

Big Dreams, Tiny Steps

It hits you in the quiet moments, when she’s stacking blocks or asking a million questions before bed, how fast it’s all going.

One day she’s learning to walk… the next she’s walking across a stage in a cap and gown.

College might feel like a lifetime away, but that first deposit into her college savings account?

That’s a reminder: you’re already investing in who she’ll become.

You don’t need a lot. Just small, intentional contributions over the years.

A little now. A little later. And a whole lot of belief in her future.

You’ve got this, Dad.