Meaningful Ways to Celebrate Dads and Father Figures

Growing up with a single mom, Father’s Day always felt tricky. I had a relationship with my biological dad, but we were not very close. My mom taught me to honor people who had father-like roles in my life. I’ve been blessed to honor five such men in my life: an uncle, a grandfather, a stepfather (who later adopted me), my father-in-law and my husband (the father of our kids).

As we approach Father’s Day this year, consider recognizing and celebrating all the dads who have contributed to your family’s life. It doesn’t need to be complicated; simple is often better. Below are meaningful ways to honor these special people.

Honoring Dad

The most obvious person to celebrate on Father’s Day is your own father. Consider these ideas:

• Personalized gifts. Give Dad a custom-made gift that reflects his interests and hobbies, engraved with a meaningful message or his initials.

• Cook a favorite meal. Prepare your dad’s favorite meal. It’s a thoughtful way to show how much you care.

• Memory jar. Encourage family members to write their favorite memories or special messages to your dad and place them in a decorative jar. Present it to him as a keepsake.

Celebrating a Grandfather

Grandfathers have a unique role in their grandchildren’s lives. Some are part of daily family life; others live far away, limiting how often you connect. Here are great ways to remind him how much you care:

• Handwritten letter or card. Express gratitude and love for your grandfather in a heartfelt letter or card. Share specific memories or qualities you admire about him.

• Family gathering. Organize a family get-together or a special meal to honor your grandfather. It could be a backyard barbecue, coffee date or dinner at his favorite restaurant.

• Photo album or scrapbook. Create a photo album or scrapbook filled with pictures of your grandfather, family gatherings and memorable moments together.

Showing Appreciation for a Father-Like Relative

Some families have an uncle, godfather or close family friend step into a fatherly role. This could be because a father is absent or simply because they care and want to express love and support. Recognize him on Father’s Day with one of these ideas:

• Gift basket. Put together a gift basket filled with his favorite snacks, drinks, books or hobbies.

• Outdoor adventure. Plan an outdoor activity that your loved one enjoys, such as fishing, hiking or taking a stroll in the park. Spend quality time together in nature.

• Video message. If you cannot be together in person, consider expressing heartfelt appreciation for him in a video message.

Thanking a Mentor

Sometimes kids become so close to a teacher or coach that he is like a father figure. It is thoughtful to recognize him as well.

• Express gratitude. Write a letter or card expressing appreciation for his guidance, encouragement and impact on your child’s life. Share specific examples of how they helped your child grow and develop. Be sure to have the child write something as well.

• Public acknowledgment. If appropriate, acknowledge his contributions and impact in a social media post, blog post, or publicly thank him at an event.

Honoring a Spouse or Partner

There is nothing like watching your significant other become a father. Think about how to make him feel appreciated for all he does and consider ways the kids can express their love.

• Breakfast in bed. Start his day with a special breakfast in bed. Prepare his favorite dishes and include a handwritten note expressing love and appreciation.

• Family outing. Plan a fun family outing or activity he would enjoy, such as a trip to the zoo or favorite museum, an adventurous hike or a beach picnic.

• DIY gifts. Get creative and make homemade gifts with the kids. It could be homemade cards, crafts, or personalized photo albums that capture special family moments. Get great ideas at www.sandiegofamily.com/forthe-kids/crafts-for-kids.

• Family movie night. Set up a movie night at home with delicious snacks and cozy blankets.

• Surprise getaway. Plan a weekend getaway or staycation for the family—a great way to unwind and create new memories. Find great family getaway ideas at www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/travel.

• Express appreciation. Throughout the day, verbally express your appreciation for your husband’s role as a father and partner.

• Tech-free day. Disconnect from devices and spend quality time as a family. Play board games, complete a project or embark on outdoor adventures. v

Rebecca Hastings is a freelance writer.