by Louisa Threesixfour

Created on: June 12, 2008

Celebrating Father's Day can be challenging but not difficult. Very often, more than a gift, Dad would love to spend a fun day with the kids. Here are some ideas to help make the day special for both Dad and the kids, making it a winning situation for all.

Let's start with some food ideas. Food is often the way to a man's heart and Dad is a man so this is a no brainer.

June is the month that barbecuing gets in full swing and usually Dad is the one who takes over. On Father's Day, turn the tables and do it for him. Prepare his favorite ribs, steak, chicken or burgers for the grill. Chill some beer or Dad's favorite beverage. Light the grill and you're off to a good start. Important here is to remember to clean the grill after wards, a chore that again is often up to Dad. Have the kids help prepare Dad's favorite desert or decorate a cake just for Dad.

Breakfast in Bed isn't just for Mother's. I don't know any man who wouldn't be thrilled by a delicious breakfast served up by his family at bedside. Easy to do with the kids are pancakes or scrambled eggs and bacon. Fresh hot coffee and juice. Again simple but the impact here is that it is different and unexpected.

Older kids and mom can treat Dad to dinner at his favorite restaurant. The nice thing about this choice is that restaurants don't tend to get that Mother's Day rush on Father's Day, and this might actually be a relaxing experience!

Outings are another good way to show Dad your appreciation especially if it's been a while since you've done any of these together. What does your Dad or husband enjoy doing? What are his interests or hobbies? Spend the day doing them with him. For example:

Does Dad likes sports? Take Dad to see his favorite baseball team play. If your home town team does this, buy the tickets well in advance and have his name put on the score board during their Father's Day tribute. If you have enough kids and family members to participate, go to a local park with a picnic or your barbeque fixings and organize a family game of baseball, softball, touch football or whatever you choose.

Fishing? Take him on a deep sea fishing charter boat for the day if you live in an area where this is accessible. If not, a day trip to the nearest fishing lake with a picnic lunch will work. Kids of all ages will enjoy this activity.

Another way to show appreciation to Dad is by spending the day making his life a little easier by doing things he would ordinarily have to do himself. Buy a card and list in it the things you will take care of on Father's Day. This can include: Cleaning out and washing his car; and yard work like mowing, trimming and weeding. Prepare some snacks and a pitcher of ice tea or lemonade and Make Dad "King for the Day." The kids can usher him to the hammock with a cold drink, do the yard work, and have fun waiting on him like the royalty he is.

The important thing to remember when celebrating Father's Day is that Dad doesn't need another cheesy tie or bottle of after shave he won't ever use. Spending the day with him, showing your appreciation for all he does, will be much more meaningful and fun for all.

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