Fathers play a significant part in children’s lives. They influence children’s self-esteem and school performance, are important role models, and among other meaningful roles, make fun-loving playmates.
Father’s Day is just around the corner; so don’t be caught scrambling for the perfect way to show you care. Try some of these ideas, and make it a special day for Dad.
Video Surprise Make a “World’s Best Dad” video that he’ll treasure for years to come. Share special memories of your dad, sing to him, read him a poem, or do skits. Get the whole family involved and conduct interviews with each other with Dad as the main topic. Don’t forget your props such as a collection of his prized possessions including sports trophies or equipment that tell who he is. Be sure to let him know just how much he means to you.
King for the Day It isn’t every day that dad is waited on hand and foot. Offer to be his loyal servant for the day, and bring him coffee and toast in bed; fetch his newspaper; lie out his clothes, bath towel, and mat; be host or hostess and serve his beverages and snacks; clean up after him and anything else to give him the royal treatment.
Memories of Dad Purchase a scrapbook and create a record of memories about your father and you. Include photos of special outings, events, and holidays you’ve had together and other memorabilia from family vacations and activities such as concert or sporting event ticket stubs, postcards, and brochures. Next to each photo or item, describe your memories of those times together with your father.
A Man to Remember Get your creative juices flowing, and write a poem for your dad. You need not be a poet to come up with a few thoughtful words to say how much he means. Describe the impact he’s had on your life, how he’s helped you to become the person you are today, and what he is to you. Then print it on stationary and frame it.
Musical Moment Take your father to see his favorite band or performing artist, enjoy a jazz or blues festival, or pack up some lawn chairs, and enjoy a local concert-in-the-park.
Togetherness Takes Two Has your dad been putting off the dreaded task of cleaning out his attic or garage? Give him a gift of shelving materials and brackets, wall racks and ceiling hooks, and storage crates. Then spend the day helping him to get it organized.
World’s Greatest Let dad know that he’s the greatest 365 days a year! Give him a “World’s Greatest Dad” coffee mug, t-shirt, book cover, book marker, wallet card, or another trinket that he’ll see or use regularly.
Sports Buff’s Surprise Take your dad for a sporting good time. Play a game of golf, tennis, or basketball, go fishing, or enjoy a paddle around a lake. If being a spectator is his thing, purchase tickets to his favorite sporting event.
Weekend Getaway Get in touch with nature and each other on a camping trip for two. Either rough it in a tent or rent mini-cabin in at a state park, and spend your weekend enjoying nature hikes, sight seeing, fishing, boating, playing cards, and taking it easy together.
Father’s Day Feast As the old adage goes; the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. So, treat dad to a mouth-watering meal on the bar-be-que. Fix him his favorite: steak, ribs, chicken, burgers, or chops for starters, and don’t forget the grilled potatoes or squash, garlic bread or rolls, fresh green beans or asparagus, potato salad, and his favorite dessert.
Just the Two of Us Put together a photo collage of you and your father. There are many ways to do this. Find instructions at your nearby craft store and create a Decoupage photo collage, keep it simple with a multi-photo frame, or purchase a unique 3D Photo Collage frame which can be found through a number of stores online.
Take a Stroll Enjoy a peaceful walk together in the park or the country. Better yet, gather your bikes or roller blades, hit a scenic bike path, and enjoy the summer breeze.
Certificates of Appreciation Show Dad you appreciate his hard work by returning the favor. Make coupons that say: “In appreciation for all that you do, Dad, please redeem this certificate for a hassle-free car wash by me!” Other favors include sweeping out the garage, mowing the lawn, or any other task for which he normally takes responsibility.
Catch a Flick…..or two Treat your dad to a movie fest. Rent a couple newly released videos or some of his long time favorites, or head to the cinemas for a double feature. Whether you take the movies in at home or the theatre, don’t forget the hot, buttered popcorn, candy, and soft drinks.
A Gift of Giving Does your dad have a favorite cause or charity such as the Humane Society, the Nature Conservancy, or American Cancer Society? If so, why not give him a membership or make a donation in his name? Remember that small donations add up and are always appreciated.
Kimberly Blaker, of Arizona, is an author and freelance writer. Her articles have appeared in more than 200 newspapers, parenting and women’s magazines, and other publications.
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