In my mind, Father’s Day always conjures up a list such as this: a neck tie, a set of tools, golf balls, fishing tackle, a coffee mug & any item proclaiming “World’s Greatest Dad!” In reality, if we asked dads what they actually wanted for Father’s Day, it would probably be alone time doing something they enjoy.

Celebrate Dad

I don’t remember Father’s Day being a big production when I was a girl. My dad was probably lucky to get a homemade card! While my sister and I love and appreciate our dad to this day, the celebrating of Father’s Day was not the commercialized event it is now. Certainly fathers deserve a special day. Today’s dads are more involved than ever when it comes to actively participating in parenting their children. A neck tie or coffee mug would certainly bring a smile to any dad’s face, but choosing a more meaningful gift should be a goal for kids, possibly with a little guidance from mom!

Be Creative

The web is full of traditional Father’s Day gift ideas, and whether your dad is into hiking, golf, horses, or books, focusing on his particular interest should provide a starting point. You can never go wrong with homemade cards, gift certificates or pictures created by the kids. These are priceless treasures to any parent. Unlike moms, dads will generally go buy what they want or need when they want it or need it. They tend not to wait for a holiday hoping someone will remember they need a new fishing pole. For this reason, a little creativity is in order.

Start A New Tradition

It may be time to turn Father’s Day upside down and start a new tradition in your family. Making a donation to a charity in your father’s name is one example. Another idea might be to plant a tree in honor or in memory of dad.

Your special gift could be as simple as spending time with your dad doing something that he enjoys. Plant a garden together, go on a bike ride, or spend the day watching his favorite movies. Let your dad’s interests be your guide! Whether you rely on past traditions or plan on starting a new one, make dad the center of HIS day!

It's a given that we should acknowledge our dads on Father's Day with a gift of some sort, whether homemade or store-bought. But what about getting down to what really tugs at a dad's heartstrings? Most dads (whether they admit it or not) are extremely sensitive when it comes to their kids. So let's take advantage of that this Father's Day (and many other days throughout the year!) and tailor this holiday specifically to what makes them feel most loved.

Memory Lane

If your dad is the sentimental type like mine is, creatively taking them back to special memories you two share can be a home run on Father's Day. It isn't always necessary to buy them the next up-and-coming technology or popular gadget (although, those can be fun gifts to give). To some dads, it means more to sit back and reflect a little bit on ways that their role as your dad positively impacted your life and made you the person you are today. Our lives are shaped so much by our dads, so we should make sure to periodically encourage their hearts. Dads don't always think that they've done a good job raising us, so by bringing up sappy/funny/or serious memories from your life together can really go a long way.

What does this look like practically? For the little kids, they're still making memories, so a craft made especially for their dad or grandparent is a memory they can hold on to. For a grandparent, it may bring them back to when their own kids were bringing them pictures and mementos home from school or church. It will allow them to relive that precious time. Crafts from kids are so honest and a tangible reflection of their personality. Dads thrive on seeing this in their kids. If you're older, you can rummage through old photo albums and recreate an old picture of yourself or with your siblings. I've seen this idea online recently and it's pretty neat and could get a good laugh. Find an old picture of you, either as a baby, toddler, or kid, and try to take the same picture as an adult. If you can find one of you with your dad that would be special as well. This could be something you and your siblings could go together on if you're all in the picture. Frame the old picture beside the new picture and each write a little memory from that year of your life with him. He will possibly smile, laugh, AND cry this Father's Day!

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

Everyone knows the popular song, but did you know that this is arguably the best gift any dad could get from his children? I did a little research with my own dad, and he verified that from us older kids nothing makes him feel more loved than knowing that he has our respect. As good as our intentions are, we probably aren't consistent all year with showing our dads the respect they deserve. Life gets busy and we forget to reflect on how our dads have poured into us all our lives with their love and wisdom and just plain awesomeness. All of this doesn't end just because we grow up and move out of the house. But respect doesn't have to stop with mushy feelings about how great your dad is. You can still take those emotions and thoughtfully translate them into a present to give him on June 15th.

Homemade Coupons

This is a very well-known gift alternative, but it's frugal and really effective. Just make sure you take a little bit of time to be creative with what you put on your coupons. Continue reading "How To Make Your Dad Feel Special" »

Father's Day is this weekend! Are you prepared or do you need some last-minute gift ideas? Well, Wedding and Party Network has the top 5 Father's Day gifts that are sure to please!

1. Tech Savvy Dad – If your dad enjoys being up-to-date on all the latest technologies, go with the Mini iPad or even a Fitbit Tracker. Both are great!
2. The Sweet Tooth – Does your dad have a sweet tooth? Why not bake him a cake, cookies or get him his favorite treat from his local bakery.
3. The Grill Master – Give your dad the gift of food with a gourmet basket filled with top of the line grill accessories and food.
4. Club of the Month – There are many Clubs of the Month out there and it's the perfect gift! If they like seafood, meat, beer, books or movies, these clubs send them a variety each month. It's such a great idea so your dad can try out new things.
5. A Day of Bonding – If you can't think of anything he really needs, plan a day of bonding. Take a road trip, go to a sporting event or just go out to lunch. Just spend the day together.

Father's Day is upon us so now is the time to find the ideal gift that tells exactly how much you appreciate your father.