Looking back, many parents of older children acknowledge that, while they did their best, there are plenty of things they would’ve done differently based on what they know now. Because of course they do. No one gets all of it right. Regret isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Instead, it’s a reminder that growth is an ongoing process and there are always new lessons for those who remain willing to learn.

But it does help to learn from those who’ve been there so you can sidestep the issues they raise. We recently asked a group of men of different ages and locations about the lessons they wish they taught their kids sooner. Whether explaining to them the value of asking for help, the importance of saving money, or the joy of learning, they offered the wisdom they wished they’d passed down to their kids a lot sooner. Consider their responses and take the opportunity to start teaching some as of yet untaught lessons of your own.