SAM JBI

you need a valid passport, fill out ds160 form 

Correction:  the father (applicant) needs a valid passport and fills out the DS160 form.  OP is not part of the process of applying for a tourist visa.

He applies based on his residence and ties abroad: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visitor.html "Visa applicants must qualify on the basis of the applicant's residence and ties abroad, rather than assurances from U.S. family and friends. A letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support is not needed to apply for a visitor visa. If you choose to bring a letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support to your interview, please remember it is not one of the factors used in determining whether to issue or deny the visa."

Thank you so much.

Even if you are a GC holder coming back by yourself you use the same line as the uS Citizens.  If you are traveling with your spouse and your international passport and GCs do not have the same names, bring a copy of your marriage certificate with you.  When you get off the plane, all travelers will be directed to the CBP area, and there are usually folks at the start of the lines directing travelers to the proper lines.  Then you should see kiosks in the lines you will go to and when one is open, you go there and start the process by scanning your GC, if you are returning with your spouse, then you can do it as a family.  The kiosk will ask the Customs questions such as are you bringing back a lot of stuff or cash with you etc., take your fingerprints and take a picture, then it will print out a slip and you take that to a CBP officer.

As a GC holder you will use the Citizens/US Resident line upon returning.  Many airports if not all of them now use kiosks for international returning travelers, it is very simple, you scan your GC and answer the questions and i believe submit finger or thumb prints.  As to suggestions for travel, you will need to research the best path for where you are going.
 
Good Luck!