Dear Parents,

This Sunday, as I’m sure that you are all aware, is Father’s Day. Father’s Day is a great time to stop, reflect and appreciate the significant role that our fathers/step fathers/grandpas and significant others, play in our lives.

Fathers, like mothers, are pillars in the development of a child’s emotional well-being. Children look to their fathers to lay down the rules and enforce them, whilst also providing a feeling of security. Children want to make their fathers proud, and an involved father promotes inner growth and strength. Studies have shown that when fathers are affectionate and supportive, it greatly affects a child’s cognitive and social development. It also instills an overall sense of well-being and self-confidence.

Whilst being in Stage 3 restrictions makes it slightly more difficult to celebrate Father’s Day, it doesn’t mean that you can’t do anything. Below is a list of quarantine-inspired ideas that your child can do to show their dad appreciation for all that he does for them.

1. Build a golf course for Dad

If Dad loves all things golf—from 18 holes to mini golf—create a course in your backyard! You can use rocks or bricks or other items you have at home to make your obstacles.

2. Go on a bike ride

Go for a ride on a local bike trail. Take snacks or some lunch so you can take a break and talk to your dad about some of his best and funniest dad moments with you.

3. Find activities you can do together

Help your dad with a project around the house or build something cool together. It will give you time to learn a new skill and get a few interesting stories about his life that you’ve always wanted to know.

4. Watch some historic sport highlights

If your dad is a sports junkie, then find some famous moments in sporting history on YouTube and watch them with your dad. You can ask him about some of his favourite sport highlights and have him share his memories.

5. Put on a Father’s Day talent show

Since you can’t go to the movies or a show, produce a variety family show at home! You can make your own video about why your dad is so cool, create a song and/or dance routine for your dad, play a tune on your favourite instrument or do a short comedy spot of the best and worst dad jokes you ever heard!

6. Learn from your Dad

If your dad loves to cook on the BBQ, plan a BBQ meal for Father’s Day! Watch some videos of famous grill masters for recipes and to learn new techniques. Don’t forget to give your dad praise for his superior skills on the grill!

7. Watch a virtual music fest

For the dad who loves music and is missing his concerts, go to YouTube to see if his favourite band has a virtual concert. If not, listen to some of your dad’s favourite songs.

8. Host a Classic game tournament!

You can play SO many games indoors, outside and virtually! You can connect with other family members with virtual bingo, trivia, charades and scavenger hunt games. Try to find out what games your dad played when he was younger and play them together for a family game night. And if your family is competitive, host an outdoor Father’s Day game tournament with catch, frisbee, relay races and tug of war.

9. Make a handmade gift

Make your dad something that will make him feel loved when he uses it. There are so many DIY crafts and projects to choose from for Father’s Day. Whatever you do, make sure it’s from the heart!

I hope that you all have a fabulous Father’s Day weekend together as a family.

Kind regards,

Joel