Father’s Day is a chance to show all the dads they’re appreciated—and an opportunity to encourage small kids to show gratitude and love.
Young children often don’t have the words or perspective to articulate just how much their parents mean to them, but with a little creativity and guidance, even toddlers can take part in meaningful gestures that speak louder than words.
Here’s how to walk small kids through a special Father’s Day and gently build their emotional intelligence along the way.
1. It Starts with Conversation
Even very young children can reflect on what they love about their dad. Ask open-ended questions like:
- “What’s your favorite thing to do with Daddy?”
- “What makes Papa funny or silly?”
- “Why do you love your dad?”
Really listen to their answers and treat them with respect, even if they say something hilarious. Write down their answers and consider using them in a homemade card or artwork. Their sweet, unfiltered words are often the most touching gift a parent can receive.
That said, be ready to maintain your good humor if your child’s replies are unexpected or they don’t feel like cooperating with the activity. Responding and adapting to your little one with patience and flexibility is key to helping them build emotional smarts.
2. Create Something Together
Handmade gifts are like time capsules of a child’s growing heart and hands. Here are a few age-appropriate ideas:
- Handprint or footprint art: Turn their prints into a heart, a tree, or even a little superhero with “Dad” written underneath.
- “Why I Love Dad” booklet: Let your child dictate their thoughts while you write or draw them together.
- Photo collage: Print photos of special moments between father and child, and let your little one help glue and decorate the collage.
- Father’s Day poem: Follow this simple Father’s Day acrostic poem tutorial to make an adorable keepsake card.
- Bonus Gift: books to read together. If you want to buy a present for dad, picture books to read with their little ones can be a great option that encourages father-child bonding. Check out this list of great picture books for Father’s Day.
3. Encourage Acts of Kindness
Father’s Day isn’t about grand gifts. It’s about making Dad feel seen and valued.
A picnic in the park, a backyard “Dad’s Day Olympics,” or reading favorite books together can be more memorable than anything from a store.
Demonstrate to your child that, in relationships, small gestures can go a long way. Teach children that appreciation doesn’t always come in the form of a present. Instead, guide them toward kind actions like:
- Giving Dad a hug and wishing him a happy Father’s Day.
- Making a special breakfast—with help, of course.
- Bringing Dad his slippers or favorite snack.
- Helping tidy up the living room “as a surprise.”
Let children know that their time, smiles, and hugs are often the best gift a parent can receive. These actions show love in a way children can feel proud of.
4. Model Appreciation for Kids
Children learn by watching. When they see you appreciating their dad—whether it’s your partner, co-parent, or another father figure—they absorb that kindness. A simple, “We’re so lucky to have Daddy, aren’t we?” helps kids link gratitude to relationship-building.
Helping small children show appreciation for their dads isn’t about crafting the perfect gift or curating the perfect experience. It’s about nurturing empathy and connection.
Father’s Day can become a cherished memory not just for Dad, but for the child who got to say “I love you” in their own special way.
