NFL Star Quarterback Carson Palmer Has 10 Messages For All Parents

A while ago, Jeff Bogle, a writer at Scary Mommy, sat down with NFL star quarterback and soon-to-be father-of-four Carson Palmer in his Scottsdale, AZ, at home to talk about all things fatherhood, including being a working parent and raising young daughters.

What came out of this interview was a genuine wisdom about childrearing — and a heartwarming look at 10 lessons Carson learned over time, that he would love to impart on other parents who are constantly learning on the job.

Below is an adaptation of Carson’s message to all parents, as told by Jeff Bogle.

“Opportunities to learn and grow as a person are everywhere, but failure is the greatest teacher of them all.

"The challenge we have as parents is turning out children’s negative moments into positive experiences, if not in the present when the scares still smart and the blisters have yet to heal, then in playing the long game.”

“Learn from parents who’ve already done it well, even if that means listening to your in-laws.

"In other words, don’t be afraid to ask other dads for advice or to share a story from the trenches that may enlighten or be relevant to your experiences as a father.

"The mom and/or dad of the significant other whom you love, respect, and are raising children with could be a fountain of knowledge.

"After all, they brought the love of your life into the world!”

“If your kiddo asks you to make one of your super special, lightning-fast paper airplanes, you make it.”

“Teach your kids to care for others through volunteerism, charitable giving, and personal sacrifice (of time, money, etc.).

"So many people have less than we do, so make the decision that you are going to put a premium on finding opportunities as a parent to show your kids the importance of caring for and about those in your community who need assistance.”

“Embrace your new role as a dad, even if that’s a role you could have never imagined in your youth.

"Meaning, if your daughter says you’re a better brusher of her hair than her other parent, you brush that hair whenever she needs it brushed and you enjoy every second of that time together, because you know those moments are fleeting.”

“Never think you have this parenting thing down. Keep listening, communicating, teaching, and learning.

"Hubris has no place in the life of a parent.”

“Don’t judge other parents or their kids, because we’ve all got struggles, baggage, past experiences, and present-day hardships that no one else can see or has the context to understand.

"Stay focused on your own business, and instead of casting judgment, try to help others, whether that’s a fellow parent or your child’s classmate, whenever you can.”

“No matter if you have sons or daughters, parent to your child, and not to a stereotype.

"Boys and girls both are capable of far more than the box we often put them inside.”

“Having kids, especially girls, can soften you as a dad.

"Be open to your kids changing who you are in a positive way. Again, we’re all still evolving as parents and as people.”

“Be an example of the adult you’d like your child to become, as well as the kind of grown-up person you hope they’ll surround themselves with as an adult.”

Please SHARE if you think quarterback Carson Palmer is a wonderful dad!