It’s the season of recognizing all the dads, granddads and father figures. They teach us how to fix things, whip up a family favorite meal and give unconditional love. They mean so much and do so much.
But hold it! Before you rush off to the nearest big box store to grab a World’s Greatest Dad mug, some socks or a loud Hawaiian shirt, let’s rethink how we can truly show appreciation for the men we admire!
This year, consider giving Pop what matters the most: time with you! Use these five ideas to make the most of the day that is Father’s Day.
1. Movies and magic
Pop some corn (use real butter), pour a couple root beer floats and settle in with your dad. Fire up a film that touches on the deep, complex emotions behind father/child relationships. Or pick one of Pop’s faves. Classics include A River Runs Through It, To Kill a Mockingbird where the wisdom of Atticus Finch shines through, or even Star Wars, with its whole galaxy of family interconnections. Lighter choices might include Mrs. Doubtfire or We Bought a Zoo! Fun films will spark interesting conversations, and there’s little better than time spent doing something memorable with your father.
2. Do some good
Show Dad how much you value his example by giving back to the community together. Find a charity or cause that he’s passionate about and spend the day volunteering your time. If you’re serving up meals at a local kitchen, pulling weeds at the veteran’s home or loving on the critters at an animal shelter, you’ll both feel good knowing you’ve made a difference. Afterwards, go out for a sweet treat! Cement your bond and celebrate a day of hard work and service with an ice cream cone, slice of pie (a la mode, of course!) or gourmet cookie. Choose the best treat for the occasion and that your father figure likes best. Plus, it offers a chance to reflect on the activity, share thoughts and feelings and grow closer as a family group.
3. Park and play
Get Dad outdoors. Pack a delicious picnic (it’s fine from the grocery store deli counter) and head to your favorite park. Slather on sunscreen and spend the day playing catch, flying kites or even painting the beautiful landscape together. It’s not really about the activity itself, but more about precious moments bonding and building memories.
4. Read it out
Short on cash? Visit the local library and pick out a book or two Dad or Grandpa and the kids can enjoy together. Spending quiet time while reading and bonding is a gift. You might pick one of Dad’s favorite childhood stories or choose a new adventure to discover together. Make sure to capture photos of the story-filled reading time to record memories the kids will cherish later. Perhaps choose Thunder Boy Jr. by Sherman Alexie and Yuyi Morales, Dad and the Dinosaur by Gennifer Choldenko and Dan Santat, or How to Babysit a Grandpa by Jean Reagan and Lee Wildish.
5. Write it down
Sometimes, the simplest gestures mean the most. Take time to write your dad a heartfelt letter. Express your gratitude, share favorite memories of time spent together and express your love and gratitude. Or get to know Pop better using prompts to record and save his special memories and lifetime stories. It’s a beautiful way to honor your dad and create cherished family keepsakes.
This year, let’s skip the clichés and focus on what truly matters: spending quality time with the men we love. Father figures deserve our thoughtfulness.
And hey, if you’re still stumped for Father’s Day gift ideas, we’ve got you covered. Check out some suggestions here and in our Father’s Day Collection.
Happy Father’s Day to all the amazing dads, granddads and father figures out there!
Tell us about your dad in the comments!
