Use these tips and ideas to create a special Father's Day gift for Dad. Forget the ties! Bag the socks! Go for something Dad will really enjoy....
Spend a Day With...
Help your kids "design a day" with Dad doing only things he'll enjoy. They could make a Saturday really special by going off together for a hike, a ballgame, shopping, an amusement park, fishing, playground, or other favorite activities. Encourage them to take a camera along to capture the fun. Write up the day's highlights on a card or in a journal and present the memento to Dad.
Tickets
You might have to plan ahead a little for this one. Surprise Dad with tickets to a concert, show, or sporting event he'll enjoy. Go as a family, or buy 2 tickets and send Dad off with a child for some special one-on-one time. Give your child money to treat Dad to a special program or hot dog.
Workbench
Do you know any dad who can't use a little help in the organization department? Give Dad organizers, pegboard, or storage items for a workbench. Or, get one of the workbench kits available in home centers now. If you don't have for a workbench, look for a collapsing model.
BBQ
This idea will be one everyone will enjoy! If your Dad loves to BBQ, then look for accessories, wood chips, aprons, marinades, cookbooks, pans, etc. Or, pop for a new grill, BBQ, or smoker. Top of the table with one of our Father's Day Centerpieces.
High Tech
Can you believe all the great high tech items on the market? A new digital camera, palmtop, cell phone, or home theater components are sure to please even the most sophisticated and technical dad.
Chef Dad
Special foods and cooking accessories are great for dads who love gourmet food. Think pasta, waffles, ice cream, Italian, soup, bread, coffee, sausages or cheese. Find lots of possibilities in stores like Crate & Barrel, Williams Sonoma, or Harry & David.
Gardening Guys
If your dad loves to dig in the dirt, find some great tools, plants, and books on gardening. Visit Smith and Hawken or Avalon Garden for some ideas. Then give a gift of time, by helping Dad with the yard work.
I Love My Dad Because...
For a gift Dad will really treasure, tell him why he's so special. Sit down with your kids and help them come up with the Top 10 Reasons they love their dad. Handwrite this list on a special card, on a scroll, or even framed to hang on the wall. Have the kids sign and date each one. You might even put together a scrap book.
Hobby Heaven
If the dad in your house has a special hobby, you're lucky. He can be easy to buy for if you just keep your ears open and listen for clues. Get help at his favorite supply store.
The Sporting Life
Whether it's golf or tennis, basketball or baseball, dads who love sports might enjoy equipment, tickets or passes to games, videos, books, or clothing that celebrates his interest.
A Tool Guy
Guys and tools... it's a "thing". Grab that special tool he's been eyeing, or get a gift certificate or shopping card for Home Depot, Lowe's, Sears, or other home center near you.
Climb to New Heights
Home centers have some great ladders to help will all sorts of home projects. Find a style you dad may need -- lightweight, extension, stepstool, taller, etc. Look for models with slots and organizer trays to hold tools and buckets.
