Celebrating Dads (and Father Figures) on Father’s Day

Father’s Day is a time to show appreciation for the dads, stepdads, grandpas, uncles, or any special male role models in our lives. But how do you involve little ones still mastering the art of holding a crayon, let alone crafting the perfect gift? Don’t worry! Here are some adorable and age-appropriate ideas to help your child celebrate dad on Father’s Day, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

The Tots (Ages 1-3): Sensory Fun and Simple Crafts for Father’s Day

• Breakfast in Bed (Toddler Style): Let your little one help make breakfast. Scrambled eggs with a bit of whisking, pouring cereal into a bowl, or decorating pancakes with toppings are all activities that can be messy but memorable.
• Fingerprint Art: What’s more adorable than a fingerprint masterpiece? Use washable paint to create a handprint “tree” with your child, adding a cut-out paper heart for the father figure in your life.

The Terrific Threes and Fours: Artsy Adventures and Playful Activities

• “My Dad is My…” Book:  Get a small notebook or scrapbook and help your child decorate the cover. They can dictate short sentences about their dad, like “My dad is strong!” or “My dad makes funny faces!” This creates a personalized and heartfelt gift.
• “Daddy, You Teach Me…” Collage:  Cut out pictures from magazines or old family photos that represent things dad teaches your child, like riding a bike, playing catch, or reading stories. Glue them onto construction paper and add a title like “Daddy, You Teach Me…”
• “Super Dad” Obstacle Course: Use pillows, blankets, and chairs to set up a safe obstacle course in your backyard or living room. Encourage your child to design the course, and then have Dad navigate it, cheering him on as he goes!

The Precocious Preschoolers (Ages 4-5): Creative Crafts and Quality Time

• “World’s Best Dad” Coupon Book:  Get some colorful construction paper and help your child create coupons for dad, like “One Free Story Time.” These playful vouchers remind Dad how much he’s loved and appreciated.
• “Dad and Me” Hand-painted T-shirts: Plain white T-shirts become a canvas for creativity! Let your child decorate a T-shirt for Dad (and maybe one for themselves) using fabric paint and stencils, or let them hand-paint a message like “World’s Best Dad.”
• Plan a “Dad’s Day Date”: Let your child choose a special activity to do with Dad. It could be a trip to the park, a zoo visit, or even building an indoor fort and having a movie marathon. The quality time spent together truly matters.

Beyond the Crafts: Making Memories Together

Remember, Father’s Day isn’t just about the gifts. Here are some additional ideas for creating lasting memories:

• Write a “Thank You, Dad” Song: Help your child create a simple song or rhyme thanking Dad for all he does. Bonus points for the silly dance moves that accompany it!
• Plant a Seed, Grow a Memory:  Plant a tiny seed together in a pot and decorate it. Watch it grow as a symbol of your love and care for Dad.

Celebrating All Dads on Father’s Day (and Every Day!)

Father’s Day isn’t a one-size-fits-all occasion. There are many families with various father figures. Here are some inclusive tips:

• Stepfathers:  Acknowledge your child’s stepfather’s role by involving him in the festivities.
• Grandfathers:  Grandfathers often play a significant role in a child’s life. Encourage your child to make a card or gift specifically for their grandpa.
• For Single Moms: Many moms raise children alone. If this is your situation, talk with your child about the important male role models in your life, like uncles, teachers, or coaches.

The most important thing is for your child to feel the joy of giving and expressing their love for the special dad… (or dads!) in their life. Father’s Day is a chance to celebrate the many ways fatherhood is expressed and cherished.

Extra Touches for Father’s Day

• “Dad’s Breakfast in Bed” Tray:  Help your child decorate a tray with construction paper, stickers, or hand-drawn pictures. On Father’s Day morning, assemble Dad’s favorite breakfast items on the tray and let your little one deliver them to him in bed for a truly special wake-up call.
  Check out some of these kid-friendly recipes from Care. 
• The Power of “Thank You”:  End the day by simply expressing gratitude to Dad. Whether it’s a heartfelt “Thank you for everything, Dad” or a simple “I love you,” these words hold immense power.

Happy Father’s Day!

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By: Melissa A. Kay