All We Need from Dad Is: 👍

If you’ve ever gotten a silent nod, a half-smile, or the ever-reliable thumbs up from your dad, congratulations: you speak Dad. Or at least, you’re fluent in “Dad Speak,” the understated emotional language many fathers abide by.

A new poll dropped just after the emotional rollercoaster of Father’s Day, and it highlights just how much dads say without really saying anything.

According to the survey, more than a third of people say that a simple thumbs up from their dad is a solid sign of both love and support. No hugs, no tears… just one digit raised in solemn approval.

And honestly? That checks out.

Nearly half of respondents (49%) say their dad would probably describe himself as “not good at emotional stuff.” Unsurprisingly, women were more likely than men to hear “I love you” from their fathers. But the love is there… it’s just usually wrapped in acts of service or sarcastic jokes about thermostat settings.

That’s where “Dad Speak” comes in. It’s not about what he says… it’s what he does.

Here are the top 20 ways dads show their affection, according to the poll:

1. Showing up when you need him.
2. Buying you a meal (bonus points if it’s your favorite).
3. Teaching you a practical skill, whether it’s grilling or how to unclog a sink.
4. Fixing stuff around the house, with or without being asked.
5. Offering you a ride.
6. Lending you tools. (Or at least telling you where they used to be.)
7. Helping out with your kids or pets.
8. Helping you move. (Again.)
9. Making you a hot drink. (Or cracking open a cold one.)
10. Forwarding links he thinks you’ll find “useful.” Even if they aren’t.
11. Checking your tires or topping up your oil.
12. Giving you a thumbs up.
13. Cooking your favorite meal without fanfare.
14. Sorting out directions like a human GPS.
15. Giving you a thumbs up: The emoji version.
16. Mowing your lawn or tidying your yard while “just stopping by.”
17. Reminding you to bring a coat (even if it’s 65 and sunny).
18. Helping with your school work like he remembers algebra.
19. Packing snacks or sandwiches for a road trip.
20. Filling up your gas tank.

So next time Dad sends you a text that just says “ok” or forwards you an article about car maintenance “for no reason,” know this: he probably loves you a lot. He’s just saying it in his own language.

And if he adds a thumbs up emoji? That’s basically a sonnet.