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Expert Advice—Cut the Chaos: Father’s Day Gift Certificates
Parenting contributor Lian Dolan with creative ideas for every type of dad
What do dads really want for Father’s Day? I asked a trusted group of advisors, dads with children from tots to teens. They answered with great suggestions for dream gift certificates. Thanks, Anthony, Mike, Matt, Brendan, Chris and my own husband Berick (see Sporty Dads) for these ideas. (Moms, feel free to send this link to your kids!)
For Dads With Toddlers
No bells and whistles. A visit from the Midnight Toy Elf will ensure that your special day is especially quiet. (We’ll never tell what happened to the batteries!) All we know is that you’ll love the silence, Dad. No sirens, alarms, moos, pings, beeps or swooshing noises will interrupt your reading or TV watching. We may even keep our voices down, but probably not. Earplugs for the other 364 days included.For Dads With Tweens
One week without the great “You’re not leaving the house in that!” debate. How did it happen? Last year your little girl was dressing her doll; now she appears to be wearing that same doll’s clothes. But not this week, Tween Dad! For seven days, your 12–year–old daughter will dress her age circa 1962, not her age circa the Spaghetti Strap Era. She’ll cover up and you’ll settle down. Added bonus? No pouting.For Dads With Teens
Gassed up and ready to go! You’ll be shocked, Dad, when you get behind the wheel and discover that the gas tank isn’t empty. No, sir, not this time! We’re going to take the 20 bucks you gave us for a week’s worth of lunches and use your money to put gas in the car! And we’re gonna trick the little kids next door into washing the car for free.For Sporty Dads
An “Anything you say, Coach” weekend. For two glorious days, you get to be the coach and I’ll be putty in your hands. Go ahead, shout instructions from the sidelines, Dad, and I’ll do exactly what you tell me. “Hustle up! Stay on your man! Bend your knees!” Yes, sir. I’ll soak in the pregame pep talk, nod in agreement at your half–time suggestions and give you full credit for the victory after the game. Two! Four! Six! Eight! Who do we appreciate? You, Coach Dad!For Dog–Lovin’ Dads
We’ll actually walk the dog you gave us for Christmas! What a treat! Sleep in, big guy, because we’re going to care for the dog we begged you for three years ago! That’s right, we named him, but we haven’t done a darn thing since! We’ll commit to a full day of responsible pet ownership: feeding, walking, brushing and playing fetch. Yard clean–up not included.For Hungry Dads
All–you–can–eat condiment buffet. Finally, a meal that Dad can sink his teeth into! Indulge in your love of condiments with a Father’s Day brunch that features all manner of dipping sauces! This is a feast that goes beyond ketchup and mustard to aioli mayo, pesto ranch dressing and superhot salsa. You name it and we’ll put it in a bowl! Grilled meat and fries provided. Special extra: no eye rolling from your spouse when you put BBQ sauce on everything.About the author: Lian Dolan is a writer, mother, Satellite Sister and creator of The Chaos Chronicles, a podcast, blog and Website about modern motherhood.
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Here's what my husband wants: a chore-free day. Hello lawnmower!
Thanks for all the great responses from makinglifebetter readers to the Mother's Day Gift Certificates. You were the inspiration for this piece. Do you have additional ideas? I'd love for you to add your own "gift certificate" ideas! Post a comment here. ChaosLian
How about a gift card for Dad's favorite baked good -- made to order!
My dad is a hot-sauce fiend! I'm so glad I came across this condiment buffet idea.
Make it an active day for you and dad, it's good for everyone!