Why Start A Daddy Blog?

March 15, 2011, By David Wright 2 comments

I started BloggerDad, when I lost my newspaper job. I wanted to keep my writing fresh and try something new. While my reasons to start a blog were more work-related than personal, it's the personal side of the blog that has kept it going.

When I look back on my archives, I'm looking back on a record of my son's growth, his journey from curious infant to a highly energized, hilarious 3.5 year-old. It's amazing how much he's changed, physically and mentally, in that time. And best of all, I have a record of his changes I might not otherwise have kept if I were not writing regularly at my website.

Whether you want to share your story with the world or simply create something private for friends and family, there are many benefits to blogging. Here's a list of the basics on starting your own daddy blog.

What Kind of Blog Do You Want?

The beautiful thing about blogs is that there is no strict form you have to follow. Whether you want to write anecdotes about your child, write about what it's like to be a dad, talk about serious issues, post funny essays, or share photos and videos, you can do any or a mix of all—it's your blog, make it whatever you want.

Most blogging platforms, such as Typepad, Blogger and Wordpress, allow you keep your blog private with password-protected blogs or posts, which is a great way to share your child's life with loved ones who live far away. Blogs were practically made for grandparents!

Community

Another great thing about blogging is that you can find others in the same boat as you. While fatherhood can be lonely if you're one of the few men you know who have a child, the blog opens up a whole world of other parents. While I expected dads would read my blog, I was pleasantly surprised at how many female readers I have.

Business

Mommy blogging is big business, with several high profile bloggers making a living at their craft. While I can't think of any daddy bloggers who are making a killing at just writing in this niche, many companies and advertisers have taken notice of daddy blogs and their role in the blogosphere. Whether you're looking to build a blog to sell ad space, or angling for a book deal, or building your popularity until you self-publish, there are tons of options out there. Don't be afraid to experiment or even start new blogs if you want to try different methods.

Parenting Experiences

Like I said, my blog has become something of a digital scrapbook containing the little things I might otherwise forget as time goes by, such as my son's first words, funny things he did, toys he liked, and whatever else I wrote about as it was happening. Blogging can also be a way to share your experiences with other parents, or even seek advice for topics you're not sure about. Wondering what kind of diaper works best at night? Trying to figure out the best way to get your child to sleep without crying? Seek advice from your readers.

Just be prepared for wildly different answers, and the occasional parent who will think you're a jerk for whatever you do or don't do. Avoid the urge to unleash your wrath, and simply ignore haters and delete their comments—it's far easier to ignore than engage.

NEXT: Warnings