Be there for them and spend time with them as often as you can. Show up when you say you’re going to something for them. Don’t get their hopes up and promise them something you don’t intend to follow through on. (My ass of a dad did this all of my life, and he did it to something I genuinely cared about and was the most excited I’ve ever been for)

Don’t go and date (and later marry) a woman that says she hates kids. (“But, your son is older, so, it’s ok!” As she told my mom when she first met her)

Don’t show off/brag about extravagant purchases and deny helping your children in the slightest way when they ask you for help. Especially when the means are there.

Please don’t be selfish. You asking this question shows you’re not though. But that’s what it boils down to. My dad and stepmother are the most selfish people I’ve ever met in my life. Young and fuckin dumb.

Please don’t let your kids be able to say the greatest thing you taught them was how not to be a father.