WHAT YOU AS A PARENT CAN DO TO MAKE FATHER’S DAY GREAT
Too often, parents (mostly mothers) stress about making Hallmark occasions like Father’s Day perfect or memorable. Very often, parents’ fuss to ensure the dads feel special, showering them with praise and attention. Father’s Day isn’t about being distant, disconnected and just taking the attention given by the child. While the title of the day suggests that it is “Father’s Day” and highlights the dads, we seem to be missing the true focus for the day. This Father’s Day, there are three tips for a successful day for the whole family:
TIP #1: Father’s Day is equally about the parent as it is about the child. If it wasn’t for your child, Father’s Day would have to be renamed ‘Husband’s/Partners/Significant Other’s Day’. Father’s Day is a day to reflect on the journey of parenthood, the way that life has changed and the memories created thanks to having your child.
TIP #2: Father’s Day is about being present and actively connecting with the child. While some parents would like some time out to enjoy peace and relaxation with fellow fathers, it is also important to remember that the time you spend with your child is high-quality time. This may mean not answering the phone or refraining from using digital media while you are with your child. Remember, your child is going to the effort of making you, their Dad, feel special. It could also mean playing a game that your child likes on Father’s Day so that they feel closer and more connected to you. Find some balance between engaging with your child and revelling in some time out so that everyone feels like they have gained something from the day.
TIP #3: Father’s Day is a process of allowing the child to feel special by making their parent feel special. Gaining the involvement of your child on Father’s Day and finding out what they want to do to celebrate gives your child a greater sense of ownership over the day. Ask your child what they want to do with their Dad on Father’s Day? For instance, many families make breakfast in bed. You could ask your child whether they would like to cook for breakfast and what they would like to serve. Remember to make it sufficiently simple so that your child can execute a part of the meal by themselves.
As your child grows older, they will become more independent and more involved in the process for Father’s Day. Any opportunity to make memories, make each other feel special and have quality time should be celebrated and revered as sacred. Before you know it, your child won’t be living at home or may want to spend time with their friends rather than shower you with so much adoration!
