
3 minute read
Father’s Day is a wonderful time to celebrate all that dads do, but why limit it to just one day? With a little creativity and a few minutes, you can help Dad feel appreciated year-round. Here’s a list of ways to bring Father’s Day magic into any day.
1.Leave a surprise note. Put a sticky note with a sweet or funny message onto Dad’s coffee mug, steering wheel or wallet. This two-minute effort can set the tone for his day.
2.Play his favorite tunes. Blast Dad’s favorite song or music genre and have a spontaneous family dance party. Better yet, create a playlist of his favorite music to play whenever he wants.
3.Snap a candid photo. Catch him doing something meaningful or “quintessential Dad”—such as playing with the kids, fixing something or relaxing. Send it to him with a sweet caption like, “Caught being awesome.”
4.Ask for his advice. Whether its cars, cooking or career moves, dads love to feel needed and valued.
5.Tackle a chore Dad hates. Take a dreaded task off his plate without a word.
6.Frame a drawing or note. Put a child’s doodle or a heartfelt note in a frame where he’ll see it every day.
7.Go on a mini outing. Suggest a spontaneous walk around the neighborhood, ice cream run or shoot some baskets at the park.
8.Say thank you for something that is often overlooked, such as fixing the porch light, picking up milk or filling the car with gas.
9.Laugh at his jokes. Even eyerolling groaners deserve a chuckle (or dramatic laugh) every now and then.
10.Give a 60-second massage. Give Dad a quick shoulder squeeze to let him know you care.
11.Make his coffee or tea. Sneak into the kitchen first to prepare Dad’s favorite morning drink, exactly how he likes it.
12.Host a five-minute “Dad toast.” Raise your glasses at dinner for a goofy or heartfelt toast to Dad’s awesomeness.
13.Send a throwback photo. Text Dad an old favorite photo with a simple, “Thank you for this memory.”
14.Stock up on his favorite snack. Keep a stash of Dad’s favorite snacks ready to surprise him occasionally.
15.Give him first pick. Whether it’s the first slice of cake, the comfiest seat or the breakfast restaurant, let him have the first pick from time to time.
16.Declare “Dad’s choice” hour. Choose a random timeframe where he picks the TV show, music, family activity or dessert.
17.Set a timer for Dad time. Each family member gets five minutes of focused “Dad time” to ask questions, share a funny story or just connect.
18.Give Dad a shout-out. Casually highlight something nice he did—whether it’s cooking dinner or holding the door open for a stranger.
Celebrating Dad doesn’t require a special occasion. Recognizing everyday moments often means the most. A little effort and care help make any day feel like Father’s Day. v Rebecca Hastings is a freelance writer.