22/05/2025

The Comedian Dad: How Laughter Became Chris McCausland’s Secret Weapon for Parenting

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In the latest episode of The Dadsnet Podcast, Chris McCausland joined us in The Dadsnet Studios and opened up about how comedy — and laughter — have shaped his parenting. Known for his razor-sharp wit and warm stage presence, Chris revealed how humour became his superpower, both on and off the stage. As a blind father, his parenting journey is unique — but his message is universal: laughter helps us connect, adapt, and thrive.

Making It Up As You Go — And Laughing Along the Way

Chris admits he doesn’t read books to his daughter in the traditional sense. Instead, they’ve created entire worlds together through improvised stories and games.

“We made it up. All of it. Whole games, stories — because that’s what we could do. And it turns out, that was more fun anyway.”

Laughter, for Chris, is more than just an escape — it’s a tool. A way to build connection when the usual tools of parenting (like visual cues or shared screen time) don’t apply.

“When I couldn’t see what she was pointing at, she’d just put my hand on it instead. That was our way. We found it together.”

Humour as a Bond — Not a Mask

While Chris’s stage life is packed with punchlines, he says the comedy that matters most happens at home. His daughter, now 11, is already showing signs of being as funny as he is.

“I work with some of the best comedians in the country. But she’s the one who really makes me laugh.”

Their relationship isn’t built on lectures or rules — it’s built on shared silliness, playful problem-solving, and letting humour ease the pressure.

Why Laughter is a Form of Love

Chris shared that while being a blind parent comes with real limitations, humour has allowed him to turn challenges into moments of joy.

“When you can’t play the same games or read the same books, you do what you can — and for me, that was storytelling and comedy. It’s what brought us close.”

At Dadsnet, we often talk about resilience, vulnerability, and showing up. Chris reminded us that laughter belongs on that list too. It’s not just light relief — it’s a serious part of the parenting toolkit.

🎧 Dive into this brilliant episode with Chris McCausland on The Dadsnet Podcast — and find out why a good laugh might be the best parenting hack out there.

Listen on Apple | Listen on Spotify