Dads are full of practical advice on just about everything, from preventing a breakdown (of the car that is) to letting hurtful words roll off your back. There’s nothing like a dad to put it all in perspective. We interviewed kids, moms, dads and experts to find the best advice they ever received from their fathers. Here are the words of wisdom that they remember best.

Living a good life
“Your health is the most important thing.” Without it, you can’t possibly enjoy life to the fullest.
Amy Kaplan, Lincolnshire, Ill.

“Appreciate scenery, art work and a rainy Sunday. And always keep your gas tank full.”
Judith Manley, Lewiston, NY

“Stand up for what you believe in and be proud of yourself.”
Margaret Silva, Nine Mile Falls, WA

“Never gamble.” I earned my first $50 at the age of nine. After spending hours cleaning up my neighbor’s yard, I ran home to show my dad how much money I had made. Somehow, he convinced me to bet my pay on numerous games of blackjack. Two hours and many losses later, I quit with only $2 left. Because I was a kid, I expected my dad to give me back the other $48. Instead, he said, “That’s why you don’t gamble, kid.” To this day, I’ve never set foot in a casino.
Daniel Salmon, New York, NY

"Before you buy something, think about how long you had to work to earn that amount of money." This helps to figure out if something is really worth the splurge.
Bonnie Schiedel, Ignace ON, Canada, Kaboose.com editor