When it comes to Father’s Day, handmade gifts are the best. There is something very special about a gift crafted with love by the hands of a child. DIY gifts come from the heart, and what more could a dad ask for?
Since schools aren’t open this year, there won’t be any goodies coming home in your child’s backpack. No need to worry, though, because I’m here to help with super-simple craft ideas for all ages.
There are a large number of crafts that kids can make at home for their dads. Younger kids can easily make simple drawings and cards. I have some wonderful ideas for handmade cards on my blog (EastCoastMommy.com), but my “shirt and tie” card is my all-time favourite and most popular. Fold a piece of cardstock in half, cut the top of the card and fold it to create a shirt collar, then glue a paper tie and pocket (decorated by the child) to the front of the card, and glue a couple of buttons to the ends of the paper collar.
Younger kids can also make a variety of crafts using basic supplies you already have on hand, such as: “Things about my Dad” questionnaires, bookmarks, handprint artwork, popsicle stick picture frames, and “#1 Dad” paper medals. Painted golf balls and painted rocks that say “Dad, you rock!” are simple and fun as well.
Kids can also create a special photo gift with a little help from mom. Photo editing software can be used to easily turn pictures of kids into custom photos that can be given as gifts. In the past, I have taken pictures of my kids holding a blank chalkboard. Then, I used Picmonkey.com to add messages from the kids to their father. For example, you can write things like, “I love my Dad because he plays mini sticks with me.” These framed photos make wonderful sentimental keepsakes.
Older kids may find many crafts “babyish”, but that doesn’t mean they can’t get in on the DIY fun. Homemade coupons that offer help are always popular with dads. Kids can offer to wash dad’s car, help dad clean the house, make dad his favourite meal, or mow the lawn.
This year, my older boys are going to make my husband his favourite treat – chocolate chip cookies. They put all the ingredients in a jar and added a cute tag that says, “Dad’s emergency ‘STACHE’ of cookies”. We put a “mustache” on the tag because every dad appreciates a good pun/dad joke. Cookie mix is a simple thing for kids to make, and it makes a wonderful treat to be enjoyed on Father’s Day.
Older kids also have the option of figuring out gifts they can make for their fathers using their own unique talents. If they are gifted artists, they can create a unique piece of artwork for their father’s office. Or, if they are musically inclined, they may want to write their father a song. Other ideas for older kids include making a beaded keychain, baking a cake, sewing a tie or BBQ apron, knitting a hat, crafting a pencil holder by wrapping a can with yarn, or building and painting a birdhouse. Sharing personal talents is a perfect way to show someone you care.
Taking the time to make a handmade gift for dad at home this year is guaranteed to show him how special he is. Dig out the craft supplies, use your imagination, and have fun!
Gina Bell writes the East Coast Mommy column. Follow her blog at www.EastCoastMommy.com or contact her at [email protected].
