My dad and my hubbie are two of the best gifts the universe has given me. I often feel at a loss of how to express my deep love and gratitude to these lights in my life. Father’s Day offers little relief.
Although I went through a phase of protesting Hallmark holidays, today I find them to be great opportunities to teach my kids about love, vulnerability, gratitude, and generosity. I know that once kids become comfortable with these emotions, it is easier for them to express them throughout the year, rather than just on one designated holiday.
Teaching Kids How to Celebrate Dad this Father’s Day:
- Leading up to Father’s Day reflect on great things about dad.
- Make cards and other memoribilia.
- Help your kids write a list about “favorite things about Dad”
- Involve them in gift buying/making as much as possible, by encouraging your kids to consider what dad would appreciate. (In our house this usually involves chocolate, beer, ice cream, and plants).
- Prompt young children on the day of to say special things to dad.
These holidays (Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, birthdays) prove perfect opportunities for teaching kids how to show appreciation to and admiration for someone else. Kid’s don’t always know how to celebrate another person, so it’s up to us to teach this behavior.
Still looking for a last minute way to celebrate Dad? Check out Nicholas Kristof’s meaningful ideas in Dad Will Really Like This.
My Dad
For most of my childhood, I lived with my mom at least two states away from my dad. Long plane rides were the norm for me. Goodbyes were ridiculously painful. I still detest them.
Despite the physical distance, my dad has always been a strong influence in my life. He beat all odds to stay connected with me, even when it was made nearly impossible for him time and time again. But more than just connected, he’s been my rock.
Dad always believed that I was capable of greatness. He set the bar high and supported me as I strived to reach it. He listened carefully and knew when to follow my lead and when to redirect me. He showed me the kind of encouragement and faith that was otherwise foreign to me. He taught me about compassion and charity through modeling it in his everyday life.
Best of all, in him I found my kindred spirit. Happy Father’s Day, Dad!
Dear Emily,
Your shout-out has left me speechless. I am, yet again, humbled and touched by your love. Just remember that nothing happens in a vacuum. You have made my father role as easy and fool-proof as can be. Each of us has contributed to the father/daughter dynamic that was created. Most importantly, it is already clear that your precious charges…our next generation…will continue to embrace you as you do me.
Thanks, once again, for making my Father’s Day so very special.
Your loving Dad.
From the man himself. Never speechless