Father’s Day is a special occasion to acknowledge and celebrate the great contribution of men to their families and society as a whole. Children have an opportunity to appreciate and honor their fathers and father figures, the men that have played a vital role in their lives.
Written by Camille Lucy
So, what do you give the man (or men) that works tirelessly to provide for his family and loved ones? Here are a few fun ideas and ways to show you love him:
1 Family Festivities
There are endless ways to enjoy some friendly family fun, including: putting a puzzle together, hosting a competition (think: minute to win it), playing board games, card games, or even video games, water games or activities, visiting the park, or riding bikes. Think about what Dad really enjoys, and plan a theme-day around it. For example, if he loves the outdoors and sunshine, maybe an outing to the beach with a picnic and frisbee match would make his day! Feel free to get creative and personal.
2 Acts of Service
One of the five “Love Languages,” Dads are no stranger to acts of service, always busy “doing” and helping, toiling and fixing! Show him you care by helping him finish a project he hasn’t gotten to, cleaning out or washing his car, offering to help around the house, or any other act of “doing” that takes pressure off of him and his to-do list.
3 Learning Lineage
Names have tremendous meaning and rich history. Learning about your last name can teach you a lot about your family’s story. See what you can find and tell Dad all about it. Additionally, you can do a family search online to find relatives, birth sites, hometowns and more!
4 Enjoying Favorites
Show him you truly love and care by enjoying his favorite things! Participate in his favorite hobby(ies), serve him his favorite breakfast in bed or cook him his favorite meal for dinner, or spend the day doing what he loves. You can also share some of your favorite stories and memories of him, creating a senes of nostalgia and helping you to feel closer.
Whether you choose something on this list or cherry pick and improvise, you know Dad best; you know what will touch his heart and show him he is loved and appreciated for being a pillar of love, support and security for you and his family… today and always.
5 Coping with the Loss of a Father
If you and your family are grieving or have experienced the loss of a father, you can plant a tree for memorial, make a memory book or enjoy his favorite meal. Though it will never replace your father’s presence, it can help you to feel close to him during this difficult time. Sharing stories and looking at photos also keeps him close in mind and heart.
6 Coping with an Absent Father
If your child’s father is absent, don’t be afraid to communicate openly and honestly. Talk about their father, answer any questions they have, and ask them how they feel about all of it. Be sure to let your child know you love them unconditionally and will always be a constant in their lives. If there is an available male role model around, ask him to spend the day for a shared activity. If you yourself have an absent father, journal about your experience(s) and how you feel. Journaling is a great tool for releasing built up emotions, thoughts and beliefs and serves as a cathartic and healing experience for us. You can also jot down some reasons you’re grateful for the other male figures in your life.
About the Author: Camille Lucy is a Certified Holistic Health Coach, Certified Reiki & Raindrop Technique Practitioner, Ordained Holistic Minister, Certified Meditation & Yoga Instructor, graphic and web designer and business consultant. She is also a writer, a Mother of 3 girls, an artist, a Life-and-Love Junkie, a Self-Expression and Development advocate, and – well, you get the point. She’s a lot of things, just like all of us. Camille is also author of, “The (Real) Love Experiment: Explore Love, Relationships & The Self,” and owner of the inspirational clothing line, LIT Gear, at www.LetsAllGetLit.com. Learn more about her and her adventure(s) at www.CamilleLucy.com.