Simple Father's Day Traditions

Father's Day is a great time to start a tradition with your family.  In our family, the kids always made their Dad breakfast in bed.  When they were young, of course I made the food and they would be in the room when it was served.  As preschoolers and toddlers, they helped with getting the breakfast together.  As the kids became older, they wanted to participate more and cook more elaborate breakfasts.

I thought I would share some other ideas that can easily be traditions to incorporate into a celebration:

Make Breakfast for Dad

Have the kids help prepare if old enough or decorate a table setting for Dad.  In our family, we always did breakfast in bed for my husband.  We always took a picture of the breakfast and the kids.  We would decorate the tray with flowers and artwork.

Timeless Photo

Take a picture of the kids with a sign or photo of Dad or in a place that you will come back to in the future.  Why not just a photo? Because it is really special when you can take a picture in the same location at a time in the future and compare the changes in the scenery and the subjects.

Poetry or Prose

Have the kid(s) write a poem or letter to their Dad.  You can keep them all in a folder or binder and add as the years go by.  It’s fun later to compare writing and sentiments.  Younger kids may need prompts to get started.

Give A Speech

Take turns giving a 60 second thank you speech thanking Dad or Grandpa around the table before a meal.  Recall your a favorite moment or memory that you appreciate.  In this busy world, I know that sometimes we do not get the chance to verbally thank someone we care about enough in person.  If you cannot be with your father or Grandfather, then videotape the message and send it.

I encourage you to create any fun tradition and make it your family’s own.  Whether it is going on a picnic, playing cards or bingo or participating in a family gathering, I think that creating a tradition helps a family develop a sense of unity and connection.   In this busy world, it is something simple and constant that can strengthening family bonds.

Whether you are a parent or not, I hope you enjoy celebrating with your family.  I'm off to buy breakfast ingredients.  Does your family have a Father's Day tradition?